A PARKLAND staff member has been recognised in the Houses of Parliament for helping residents in fuel poverty.

Wendy Collas, executive assistant at Warfield Park, Bracknell, was given the accolade after she supported a £1.6 million project to allow residents to access the natural gas market.

Ms Collas worked 'above and beyond' to coordinate with residents, ensuring access for hospital appointments, deliveries, post and refuse collection, while the extensive installation works went on at the park homes site.

Her support led to over 200 boilers being converted, 260 new boilers installed, new hobs fitted in 196 park homes, 234 new appliances and 71 new ovens - all of this to combat fuel poverty among residents.

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Ms Collas said: “I am really proud to have received this award and I am delighted and honoured that my work has been recognised.

"It was fantastic to celebrate at the House of Commons."

She was awarded at the 2020 Heat Hero Awards, presented last week in the House of Commons.

The Awards programme, supported by numerous national gas networks, aims to recognise those who are helping those who struggle to afford basic heating in their homes.

Hazel Hill, sustainable energy officer at Bracknell Forest Council, said: "Making special arrangements for some specific needs demonstrates a clear understanding that households’ needs are firmly at the centre of any project at Warfield Park."

Warfield Park’s managing director, Barry Sumer, said: "We are very proud of the extra care and attention that Wendy put in to help support the residents of Warfield Park, especially those who are vulnerable."