A residents' association has received two awards for its community work.
The Maryland Ward Group, was honoured at the East London Community Heroes Awards 2026, just months after its formation.
It won the Outstanding Initiative in Community Cohesion category at the ceremony, which took place at the Royal Docks’s Good Hotel and was hosted by Rotary Club Stratford.
Babs Pierre, co-convenor of the group, also received the John James Memorial Good Neighbour Award in recognition of her "outstanding commitment" to bringing people together and championing the Maryland community.
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Ms Pierre said: "Winning these awards is a wonderful recognition of what local people can achieve when they come together with a shared purpose.
"Every member of the Maryland Ward Group brings different skills, ideas and experience, and this recognition belongs to every one of them. We’ve accomplished so much in just a few months, but this feels like the beginning rather than the end.
"I hope these awards will be a springboard for even greater things as we continue building a stronger, safer and more connected Maryland."
Launched in March 2026, the Maryland Ward Group was formed by residents looking to address issues including dangerous pavement cycling, fly-tipping, anti-social behaviour, and the lack of community facilities.
What began with around two dozen residents answering a Facebook call for a meeting has grown into a respected organisation involving residents, businesses, councillors, police, and community organisations.
The group has already hosted a Big Cultural Lunch, campaigned to reinstate the Freetail Unit community swap shop, and supported efforts to protect the Hibiscus Centre for African and Caribbean elders.It also provides a forum for residents to share information, celebrate successes, and work together to improve the area.
Future plans include more community events and the long-term goal of establishing a Maryland street market.
The market would centre around Maryland’s iconic twisted clock and aim to showcase local businesses, talent, and community pride.
Newham is described by the group as having one of its most overlooked neighbourhoods in Maryland, an often overlooked corner of Newham.
The awards were attended by high-profile guests including MPs Sir Stephen Timms and James Asser, and the mayor of Newham, Forhad Hussain.
The East London Community Heroes Awards celebrate individuals and organisations making an exceptional contribution to their communities across East London. In its first year, Maryland Ward Group has made a significant mark.
The group encourages residents to get involved by attending monthly meetings, joining discussions online, and helping shape future projects.
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