A WOMAN who fled to Llandudno to escape her violent husband and is now devoting her life to helping other vulnerable people has been honoured by a police chief.

Brenda Fogg arrived battered and bruised with her two children from her home in Manchester, their possessions in two black bin bags, determined to make a new and better life.

And her success in achieving her goal was shown when she picked up the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Outstanding Achievement Award from North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones.

It came after she was awarded a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Brenda, who founded an organisation called Hope Restored eight years ago, and in the winter of 2017 was responsible for opening a pop up night shelter for people sleeping rough on Llandudno’s streets, is known as the “Angel of Llandudno” by the people she’s helped.

“When I first arrived in Llandudno I was in a right old mess,” said Brenda.

“I had quite serious facial injuries and was in and out of hospital for weeks. I booked myself and my children into a B&B while I got some help. I didn’t want to go out for some time.”

The special award was for a group or individual for a wide reaching contribution to public life and community in North Wales by helping to prevent crime and support communities.

Arfon Jones presented Brenda with her award, recognising her significant contribution to society, at a glittering ceremony at the Celtic Royal Hotel, Caernarfon, saying: “Brenda makes a massive contribution on reducing demand on Conwy Council and as such her organisation deserve a contribution from the local Supporting Housing Grant or closer working with local housing associations.”

Brenda became caretaker at Gloddaeth United Church in Llandudno and it was through that job and her team of volunteers she was able to do more to help people facing being without a home.

At first Brenda’s activities were based at Gloddaeth, but have moved to the Lighthouse Community Church at West Shore.

“At first there were six or seven people sleeping rough on the streets of Llandudno. Now there is an average of 16 or 17.

“We can cater for up to 25 at our sessions every Tuesday and Friday, providing them with hot meals.”

Brenda, whose son and daughter are now in their 20s, added: “In those eight years Hope Restored has dealt with more than 500 people who have now gone on to lead their own lives.”