A Luton community volunteer who has spent nearly 30 years supporting local families has been recognised as a ‘local hero’ by Nisa Local Marsh Farm and Snappy Shopper.
David Crean – a much-loved figure in Marsh Farm and beyond – was surprised with a festive gift hamper after retailer Barry Patel nominated him for Snappy Shopper’s 12 Days of Christmas campaign, which highlights people making a positive difference in their neighbourhoods.
Crean, who has 17 grandchildren, has dedicated decades to community work ranging from organising Christmas lunches for older residents to fundraising for family activities and even dressing as Santa for local schools. His efforts during the Covid pandemic saw him distribute 2,000 Christmas parcels, and his long-standing service to others was recognised with an MBE.
Barry Patel of Nisa Local Marsh Farm said: “Our community hero is David Crean. He’s our unsung hero. He does a lot of charity work and I’d like to recognise him even further.”
Crean said his volunteering was inspired by the support he received after the loss of his daughter at the age of six. “The community was absolutely fantastic to me and I wanted to give back – and the only way, and best way, is from the heart,” he said. “It’s community spirit, and that’s what we need more of.”
To celebrate his contribution, Snappy Shopper and Nisa Local Marsh Farm presented Crean with a hamper filled with festive food, treats for his grandchildren and a centrepiece Christmas ham to help bring the family together.
A spokesperson for Snappy Shopper said: “David embodies everything that makes local communities special. Retailers like Nisa Local Marsh Farm sit at the heart of their neighbourhoods and it’s people like David who keep that sense of community alive. We’re proud to recognise him this Christmas.”