Although there have been many stories of sadness and heartache in 2017, as the year draws to a close we at the Wimbledon Guardian wanted to share nine heart-warming stories as a little reminder there is still good in the world.
The list is a little taste of the goodness and kindness people in the borough have shown throughout the year.
• Building company help save Raynes Park Vale Football Club
A team of volunteers from building company Kisiel Group spend their time clearing rubbish off a playing field. Club chairman of Raynes Vale Football club, Paul Bentley said: “They have done more than just clear leaves. Without their intervention Raynes Park FC would have ceased.”
• A go-karter who had a heart attack at a Mitcham race track has thanked the staff for saving his life
Esmond Mc Laughlin, 48 started to feel pains in his chest and then suddenly collapsed after his third karting session at TeamSport Go. The quick actions of the staff at the track saved his life. He said: “The staff were amazing, they got an ambulance and they were on the ball. I owe them so much.”
• Kiss Me Hardy pub in Colliers Wood invites Macmillan nurses for free Sunday dinners
A pub in Colliers Wood gave Macmillan nurses a free meal every Sunday throughout May. Manager at Kiss Me Hardy, Hesham Badra said: “Macmillian nurses work tirelessly to support people with cancer and their care make such a difference in the local community.”
Stephanie Nimmo’s daughter Daisy was born with a rare life-limiting disease Costello Syndrome.
• A pub in Wimbledon offers a dinner and pint to anyone alone this Christmas
The Alexandra in Wimbledon offered a free Christmas dinner and pint to anyone who is on their own this Christmas. Manager Michael Dore said: “It was a seven years ago when the pub started offering a free couple of pints or glasses of wine for people who were on their own.
“We never really thought anybody would be that interested in it.”
• Eight year old from Mitcham raised money to give to Grenfell Tower victims
Amylou Bickel donated her pocket money to victims and gave away brand new toys such as teddy beers and books. Her mother Kimberley said: “She doesn’t want anything out of it and it’s all off her own back.”
• Wimbledon milkman helped Wandsworth woman after burglary
Wimbledon milkman Ian Beardwell was hailed a hero for helping a very frightened Wandsworth resident after she was burgled. Mr Beardwell said: “I was happy to help Sasha, just as I hope anyone would have done.”
• 300 Harley Davidson motorcycles ride through Merton for funeral
More than 300 mourners on Harley Davidson rode through Merton to pay tribute to motorcycle enthusiast Ken Priss. The riders headed from Co-op funeral care in London Road in Mitcham to Morden.
• Youngster voted happiest pupil in the country
Joseph Edwards was nominated as one of the happiest pupils in the country. Joseph Edwards who is in Year 6 at Pelham Primary school was named as finalist at the National Happiness Awards. Despite a physical disability he has always has an enthusiasm for life, said his headteacher.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here