LOCAL Heroes are people who bring that extra something to their community. This week’s nominee has helped give a generation of children in her area a place to have fun in a safe, structured environment.

Janet Woeginger first got involved with the running of 1st Harmondsworth Scouts 15 years ago when her children were of an age to join.

“There was nothing really for children to do in the area at that time, and that is where the scouts came from really,” she told the Gazette.

“It was something for the children here to have a place to go and it all just grew from there, to be honest.

“It really doesn’t feel like it was 15 years ago that it all began.”

Mrs Woeginger has also been instrumental in helping the scouts to secure more than £100,000 to help revamp their headquarters in The Pound, off High Street, Harmondsworth.

The Pound was built for the scout movement more than 50 years ago. It is believed the land was historically an area for stray animals in the village, hence its name.

The group was forced to move out of the hut 18 months ago after a leaking roof made it unsafe, prompting the costly refurbishment.

“It will be great for us to finally have a permanent home again,” said Janet.

“We are hopeful it will all be sorted soon.”

Mrs Woeginger has been nominated by Councillor Paul Buttivant (Con, West Drayton).

In his nomination of Janet in the Community Champion category, he said: “I have, over the years, had the honour of meeting many people who do amazing things for others.

“However, I can confidently say that Janet is, locally, perhaps the most dedicated and caring individual I know.

“She tirelessly works to keep 1st Harmondsworth viable and provide all the children who attend an opportunity to enjoy themselves.”

Exactly the sort of person who makes a Local Hero, and if you know someone who shares the same qualities, please take five minutes to nominate them.

Know a local hero? Nominate him or her here .