THE South Wales Argus presented the first award to Newport’s Neighbours of the Year, Claire and Andrew Maddocks.

The couple, who now live in Undy in Monmouthshire, were nominated after they opened up their home in 2010 to care for one of their friends who was dying of cancer.

Fifty-two-year-old Joy Lewis had nowhere to go following her diagnosis of cancer in the digestive system, but the pair offered to take her in and nurse her until she died in 2011.

Ms Maddocks said: “It was very humbling to be nominated as there were just so many more worthy people.

“Looking after her was just the right thing to do. She was our best friend and although it was quite a traumatic time, it was also a very special time.”

The couple’s nomination read: “People have lost count as to the amount of times that this couple has stepped in and helped when others need assistance.

“They really loved this lady in her final days. It’s people like this that make the difference to communities – people we all need in our lives.”