Derry’s Micky Doherty is NI Lockdown Champion

Grainne Robinson, Housing Manager Habinteg Housing Association, centre, and Margaret McLaughlin, Habinteg Community Involvement Officer present Michael (Micky) Doherty with the Lockdown Champion’s prize, on Tuesday afternoon last, after the popular Derry man won the housing association’s Facebook good deeds during lockdown competition. DER2037GS – 002

Last month Habinteg invited everyone on their Facebook page to nominate and share stories of their lockdown heroes: the neighbours or friends who had helped out and gone the extra mile over recent months. The housing body said the response has been amazing and provided a great opportunity to recognise people who have gone the extra mile in supporting their communities during theses challenging months.

Micky Doherty was nominated by his neighbour Margaret Doherty, who described the difference he has made to everyone’s lives, not just his neighbours, referring to him as “Derry’s Angel”.

Margaret commented that Michael was a very worthy Northern Ireland winner.

Runners up prizes have gone to Marie Barry in Newry and Kelly Wallace, Belfast.

Micky told the Journal he was delighted to get the surprise visit on Tuesday. “I’m absolutely buzzing,” he said.

Micky, who also recently won a Spirit of NI Award and a Foyle Pride award, said his main focus during the lockdown had been to do what he could over what has been a very testing time, especially for people with mental health conditions. “I don’t expect these kind of things, I just like to be involved, helping people,” he said, adding: “This has been a nightmare for people and over this period, not being at work and because of my own mental health I couldn’t sit in the house so tried to turn it around.”

Micky has helped local people in numerous ways over lockdown, including with gas, electricity and oil heating and a few companies came onboard as well to help out.

Margaret McLaughlin, Habinteg Community Involvement Officer thanked all those who nominated. “We are delighted to hear the heart-warming stories of how communities have come together for the benefit of others,” she added.