Diss courier receives award for his work within the community
A caring courier, who has built friendships with the residents he delivers to, has collected an award for his actions.
Dennis Harris, 57, from Diss, collected the South Norfolk Council Helping Hand of the Year award two weeks ago during an awards ceremony at Bawburgh Golf Club.
“It’s a bit overwhelming, and I felt it was lovely to even be shortlisted, let alone winning it,” said the courier.
“I’ve always just thought that, if I can help someone out, I will do.
“I’ve done bits and bobs around where I deliver, like taking bins in, picking up medication or shopping or moving something heavy.
“I just treat people the same way I’d hope a relative of mine would be treated. And, besides, delivering parcels can be quite boring, so these little jobs help keep the day interesting.”
Alan and Pauline Harkett, who live in Bramley Avenue in Diss, and nominated Mr Harris for the award, described him as “deserving of every accolade he is given”.
Mrs Harkett added: “We nominated him because he is brilliant, and nothing is too much trouble for him.
“He always stops by to ask if we are okay, and picks up shopping for people. When we had a power cut, he went to Costa to get us tea and coffee.”
South Norfolk Council’s citation for his award described Mr Harris as someone who always goes the extra mile for his customers.
“Over the years, he has fixed broken down cars and helped to replace heavy gas bottles for vulnerable residents on his rounds.
“Stories of his kindness and community spirit have even gained him a large Facebook following. The time he spends supporting his customers is always greatly appreciated,” it read.
Mr Harris’ award was one of eight handed out during the evening, in a celebration of community spirit.
Despite having built up something of a fan base in the town, Mr Harris described his actions as nothing more than helping out some friends.
“I’ve known my customers for several years along the routes I deliver in Diss, Shelfanger and Winfarthing,” he said.
“I see them all the time, so it’s no trouble to just knock on the door and see how they have been.
“Knowing my actions are appreciated is wonderful and I’m really happy to receive the award, but it’s no trouble to help people out a bit.”