Gallions Housing Association Short-listed

Thanks to local celebrity, Max the lion, Gallions Housing Association has been short-listed in the communications category of this year's Neighbourhood Awards; one of the premier awards in the social housing sector.

The Communications entry focused on the association's waterways safety campaign fronted by Max. The campaign was launched summer last year following the tragic drowning of local hero, Leigh Pitt, who died whilst trying to save an eleven year old boy who fell into a canal.

Supported by local MP John Austin, the campaign reached out to all school children in Thamesmead, south-east London. Max was instrumental in helping drive home the message that the waterways could be dangerous if not used properly. He attended school assemblies to spread the word, handed out his own leaflets and was given a special section on the Gallions website - one that is still proving popular today.

The winner will be announced at a ceremony in Birmingham (the International Convention Centre) on Thursday 18 September 2008.