Modest Marlene’s a blooming good neighbour

CHRISTMAS gifts . . . Marlene Horton receives her hamper from Saddleworth Round Table chairman Matthew Skyes and neighbour Jackie Warburton

A GOOD gardening neighbour is reaping what she’s sowed, thanks to her kind-hearted generosity.

Marlene Horton (68) was nominated for a Chronicle and Saddleworth Round Table Christmas Wish for everything she ploughs into her little community in Delph - including mowing lawns and tending gardens.

Her Huddersfield Road neighbour Jackie Warburton nominated Marlene for a special treat, knowing this Christmas will be difficult after losing her husband Bill three months ago.

Marlene nursed cancer-victim Bill (68) for 12 months, and Jackie wanted to make sure she knew others were thinking of her.

The wishes team waved its wand and rustled up a delicious treat-filled hamper for Marlene to enjoy over Christmas.

“She lost her beloved husband after caring for him at home and even through this she always has time for her grandchildren, who visit regularly,” Jackie said.

“Marlene tirelessly cares for our communal garden, mowing the lawns and planting. I’m eternally grateful to Marlene and feel she deserves a nice treat.”

A grateful Marlene said she was bowled over by the gesture: “It’s brilliant but such a shock,” she said. “I don’t think I do anything special; I just do them because they need doing.”

Saddleworth Round Table chairman Matthew Skyes said: “Everyone wishes they had a good neighbour like Marlene. Despite all her personal tragedy, she goes out of her way quietly continuing to look after other people.”