A mother-of-two who has taken a teenager under her wing and supported her through turbulent times in her life has been nominated for this year’s Comet Community Awards.

Karen Morton, of Ely Close in Stevenage, has been nominated in the Good Neighbour category of the awards by her friend Shauna Hobbs.

Shauna, 17, said: “Karen is an amazing person, and loves people and animals.

“Any sort of problem I have ever had, she is the number one person I have turned to. She will do anything in her power to help people.

“I recently split up with my boyfriend and it was my first heartbreak. She gave up her time for me and talked to me for an hour until I felt better.

“I’m lucky to have her as my neighbour and friend.”

Shauna, who has known Karen all her life, added: “She will always put your bins out if you forget, and she’s someone you can trust to have your spare key. She goes to every length to help out and she’s truly an amazing person.”

Karen, who was surprised to learn of her nomination, told the Comet: “I’ve known Shauna since she was a baby, so it feels natural to me that I would help her.

“She got me a thank you card after I talked to her when she was upset about her boyfriend, I just felt like I was doing what anyone would do.”

“We’re all quite neighbourly round here and would help anyone – I just treat people how I’d want to be treated.”

Entries for the awards will continue to be accepted until Friday, April 22, when judging from our sponsors – including accountancy firm George Hay which is backing the Good Neighbour category – will take place to choose finalists.

This year’s awards will be presented at the Icknield Centre in Letchworth which will be held on Friday, May 20.