A HUSBAND and wife have picked up a coveted regional award for dedication to their community.

Malcolm and Julie Williamson, from Malton, were announced as the winners of the 2018 Yorkshire Housing Good Neighbour Award.

The retired couple were praised for their kindness as they tend to a small allotment where they share fresh produce with fellow residents.

They are also known for keeping the streets tidy, with neighbours seeing 80-year-old Malcolm battling heavy winds to secure wheelie bins.

Their outgoing nature has been described as “infectious”, as locals say they have “created an atmosphere of cooperation and community in the neighbourhood”.

Mr and Mrs Williamson said: “What an honour to be chosen for this year’s award. It means so much to us both.

“We try to help the community out as much as we can, and we know that our neighbours try to help us just as much in return. There’s a great atmosphere here and we’re proud to do what we can to make sure it continues.”

James Haigh, Yorkshire Housing community investment manager, said: “Julie and Malcolm are well-known in their area, they put themselves out to help the people who live around them. I’m delighted we can acknowledge their hard work."