Biddulph Volunteer Recognition and Civic Awards

Volunteer Thank You and Civic Awards – 28 February 2026

In January 2026, we asked the Biddulph community to nominate the individuals, groups and businesses that have gone above and beyond for Biddulph.

Representatives were invited to a ‘Volunteer Thank You and Civic Awards’ event on Saturday 28 February 2026 to thank them for their work and to celebrate their achievements.

The Town Crier, John Robinson, opened the event with a cry and Biddulph’s Mayor 2025-26, Councillor Adrian Lawton, welcomed everyone with the following words:

‘It is a real pleasure to welcome you all here this afternoon to our Volunteer Thank You and Civic Awards event.

When we first began planning this year’s civic celebration, there was talk of holding a traditional Mayor’s Ball. And while those occasions certainly have their place, I felt very strongly that this year should be different. Instead of an evening of formality and fanfare, I wanted an afternoon of gratitude and togetherness – a chance to spend time with the very people who make our community the remarkable place it is.

Because that is what today is about. It is about the volunteers who give their time when no one is watching.

The community champions who step forward when something needs doing.

The quiet organisers, the litter-pickers, the fundraisers, the trustees, the helpers, the listeners, the carers. You are the heartbeat of this community.

Too often, the true strength of a town is measured in buildings, budgets or statistics. But I believe the measure of our community is found in its people – in kindness freely given, in service without expectation, and in pride in where we live.

Every hour you contribute, every event you support, every neighbour you help – it all adds up, and makes this such an amazing place to call home.

So today is simple, but it is important. It is about saying thank you – properly, sincerely, and publicly….. As Mayor, I could not be prouder to represent a community filled with people like you.

So, this afternoon, let’s celebrate. Let’s share stories. Let’s enjoy each other’s company. And most of all, let us recognise that the strength of our town lies not in ceremony or titles, but in the generosity and spirit of its people.

Thank you for everything you do – and enjoy the afternoon.’

After a buffet, attendees were presented with a certificate by the Mayor as recognition of their tremendous work.

This was followed by the Civic Awards section, (voted for by members of the public).

Culture

This award recognises an individual or groups work that has made an outstanding contribution to the arts in Biddulph. This could include art, music, craft and photography, film, theatre etc.

The Culture award was presented by Councillor Adrian Lawton: ‘This award has been thoughtfully split into two categories – Art and Music – and we are proud to recognise two outstanding winners whose creativity, talent, and dedication enrich our community in such meaningful ways. Culture plays a vital role in bringing people together, inspiring us, and celebrating who we are, and today we honour those who help it flourish.

The winner for the Art award is a group whose work we have all become familiar with. This award recognises the positive impact their post-box toppers have had on our town. Their creative, seasonal displays bring colour and joy to the town centre. They spark conversation, encourage people to visit and strengthen community spirit and local pride.’

Winner: Art: Biddulph Yarnbarms 

‘This organisation consistently puts Biddulph on the ‘culture map’, by bringing high quality national and international musical performances to the town. Through their work, they champion diverse live music, strengthen community bonds and nurture grassroots entertainment, making music concerts affordable for all.’

Winner: Music: Biddulph Up in Arms 

Representatives from Biddulph Up in Arms were unable to attend.

Business

This award recognises a local business that has gone above and beyond. 

The Business award was presented by Councillor Jim Garvey: ‘All the nominations for this business talked about the same thing… this is more than just a business. This business supports families, young people and is passionate about fostering meaningful partnerships that strengthen our local economy.’

Winner: Becci’s Kitchen 

Community Wellbeing

This award recognises an individual or group that has gone above and beyond in supporting the people of Biddulph. 

The Community Wellbeing award was presented by the council’s Chief Officer, Mrs Sarah Haydon: ‘Music has a remarkable ability to bring people together – to lift spirits, to create connection, and to strengthen communities. Through their dedication, talent, and commitment, this group has done exactly that. Their performances do more than entertain; they inspire, comfort, and unite.

This group has consistently demonstrated the positive impact that collective singing can have on mental health, social connection, and community pride. Whether performing at local events, supporting charitable causes, or representing the community with distinction, they have helped foster a sense of belonging and shared identity.

This award recognises not only their musical achievements, but their invaluable role in promoting wellbeing, friendship, and community cohesion.’

Winner: Biddulph Male Voice Choir 

Environmental

This award recognises great work and contribution towards caring for the natural and built environment. These people are inspiring and innovative, putting the environment at the heart of their activities.

The Environmental award was presented by the Councillor Nigel Yates: ‘This award recognises something very special – not just projects, but passion. The work that has been carried out by this group is a shining example of what can happen when local people come together with a shared vision for their community.

Through the development of the community orchard, you have not only enhanced the landscape, but also invested in the future. Orchards are symbols of growth, sustainability, and long-term thinking. They provide habitats for wildlife, support biodiversity, and create spaces where people can connect with nature, learn, and enjoy the outdoors.

The improvements to pathways have made a real and lasting difference. By making green spaces more accessible, you have ensured that more people – residents, families, visitors, young and old – can safely enjoy the beauty of the area.

What makes your work particularly inspiring is that it is community-led. It reflects collaboration, determination, and a deep love for Biddulph Moor. Projects like these do not happen by accident. They take planning, partnership, volunteer hours, perseverance, and belief – and you have demonstrated all of these in abundance.’

Winner: Biddulph Moor CORE group. 

Sport

This award recognises a group or individuals sporting achievement for Biddulph. Be it playing, organising, or contributing to sporting development.

The Sport award was presented by Councillor Jill Salt: ‘This recognition is not just about results, trophies, or personal bests – it is about community, dedication, teamwork, and passion.

This group represents everything that is positive about local sport. From those taking their first steps to experienced athletes pushing for new goals, the club provides encouragement, support, and friendship to all. It is a place where people are inspired to challenge themselves, improve their fitness, and build confidence – all while being part of a welcoming and supportive team.

What truly makes this club special is the commitment of the members, the dedication of the volunteers, and the encouragement they give one another. Whether competing, training together, or supporting community events, the club continues to make a positive impact far beyond the finish line.’

Winner: Biddulph Running Club 

Representatives from Biddulph Running Club were unable to attend.

Youth

This award recognises an individual or group of young people aged 18 and under who have made an outstanding contribution to their local area of Biddulph as a whole. 

The Youth award was presented by Councillor Rev Yanyan Case: ‘This award recognises outstanding commitment to young people, and there is no doubt that this organisation truly deserves this recognition. The work carried out here makes a genuine and lasting difference to children, young people, and families across our community.

They provide a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive environment where young people feel safe, listened to, and valued. Through activities, guidance, outreach, and essential support services, the team helps to build confidence, resilience, and opportunity. The impact of this work extends far beyond the building itself – it strengthens families and contributes to a stronger community for everyone.

A particularly important part of the hub’s success is the outstanding contribution of its volunteers. Volunteers give their time, energy, and skills to support the work of the centre, and they are vital part of what makes the hub so special.

I would also like to recognise the exceptional leadership of the manager, who consistently goes above and beyond in their role. Their commitment, professionalism, and passion for supporting young people sets the tone for the entire team. It is clear that their dedication inspires others, drives continuous improvement, and ensures the hub remains a trusted and valued resource within the community.

In times when families may face challenges, the presence of a supportive, well-run, and compassionate service like this is invaluable.’

Winner: Biddulph Family Hub 

NALC Clerk Of The Year 

This was a special addition to the awards ceremony, presented to the Chief Officer, Mrs Sarah Haydon, by the Town Crier, Mr John Robinson, following her being named Clerk of the Year by the National Association of Local Councils at a ceremony at the House of Lords earlier in the week.

‘Since becoming the Chief Officer in 2016, Sarah has worked alongside councillors to support a council serving over 20,000 residents across five wards, growing the staff team from two to ten. 

Together, the council has delivered a five-year strategic plan, taken on major community assets, achieved Gold in the Local Council Award Scheme, and a RoSPA Silver Award – achievements that reflect collective commitment, sound governance, and operational excellence. But awards and statistics only tell part of the story. What really sets Sarah apart is the way she supports others to lead well. 

Through Biddulph Works Together, she has helped bring voluntary and community partners together to tackle social isolation and the cost of living crisis, supporting the provision of over 9,000 free meals. She works tirelessly being the scenes – advising, mentoring, connecting people, and ensuring that good ideas can become real outcomes. 

Earlier this year, the council also completed its most ambitious capital project to date – the transformation of the town hall frontage into a new public square. It stands as a visible example of what can be achieved when councillor’s vision is matched with professional expertise, careful planning, and determination. 

The Town Council team is ambitious for the people of this town. Councillors, officers, volunteers, and partners all want the very best for Biddulph. But ambition alone only takes you so far. The long hours, the constant demands, the difficult conversations, and the moments when feedback is challenging require something deeper. And that something is love. 

A love for the work. 

A love for this town. 

And a genuine love for the people who live in it. 

That same spirit is reflected in our volunteers – people who give their time, energy, and compassion to support others. It’s also what Sarah brings to her role every day, and what helps all of us to keep moving forward together. 

Sarah, this award is thoroughly deserved. Thank you for your professionalism, your commitment to supporting democratic leadership, and for helping this council and this community to thrive.’ 

Outstanding Contribution

This award recognises an individual’s continued commitment to the community over an extended period.

The Outstanding Contribution award was presented by the Deputy Lieutenant for Staffordshire, Mrs Judy Scott-Moncrieff: ‘It is both an honour and a privilege to stand here this afternoon to recognise someone whose contribution goes far beyond fundraising – someone whose strength, dignity, and determination have made a lasting impact on so many lives.

This years Outstanding Contribution award goes to a truly remarkable woman who has raised an incredible £100,000 in support of CRY, all while carrying the profound personal loss of her own son. That alone speaks volumes. But what makes her contribution so extraordinary is not just the amount she has raised – it is the way she has done it.

In the face of unimaginable grief, she chose action. She chose purpose. She chose to turn her pain into something that would help protect other families from experiencing the same heartbreak. Through tireless fundraising, she has supported vital testing sessions – including one taking place today – helping to educate communities, raise understanding, and potentially saving lives.

She fundraises not for recognition, but because she believes deeply in the cause. She speaks with quiet conviction. She carries herself with dignity. And she demonstrates, through every effort, that strength does not need to be loud to be powerful.

Her determination is steady and unwavering. Her commitment is consistent. And her impact is far-reaching. Because of her work, awareness has grown. Conversations have started. Lives have been reached.

Today, we recognise not just her fundraising success, but her extraordinary character. Her quiet strength inspires all of us. Her dedication reminds us of the power one person can have. And her determination honours her son’s memory in the most meaningful way.’

Winner: Nicola Everill 

The ceremony ended with a toast to the King and to the Biddulph community.

Photos were taken by Jasper Van Der Vilt.

More photos can be seen on his Facebook page. Here’s a link: Jasper Van Der Vilt Photography | Facebook

Volunteer Recognition and Civic Awards – 24 September 2024

We have a fantastic array of community groups and volunteers in our town.

In August 2024, Biddulph Town Council asked the Biddulph community to nominate their unsung heroes who make Biddulph a great place to live, work and socialise.

Representatives from the following local organisations were invited to attend a ‘Volunteer Recognition and Civic Award’ evening, held in the Town Hall on 24 September 2024, to thank them for their work and to celebrate the difference they make to our town:

Approach Staffordshire (Dementia Support)

Beth Johnson Bereavement Friendship Group

Biddulph & District Community Orchestra

Biddulph & District Genealogy and Historical Society

Biddulph & District Probus Club

Biddulph Amateur Swimming Club

Biddulph Branch of the Royal British Legion

Biddulph Community Sewing Group

Biddulph Community Wellbeing Group

Biddulph District Rainbows, Brownies and Guides

Biddulph Fairtrade Town Group

Biddulph Festival

Biddulph Foodbank

Biddulph in Bloom

Biddulph Ladies Afternoon Club

Biddulph Library

Biddulph Local People’s Group

Biddulph Male Voice Choir

Biddulph Methodist Church

Biddulph Moor Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers

Biddulph Moor Community Association

Biddulph Moor Evergreen Club

Biddulph Ramblers

Biddulph Running Club

Biddulph Trefoil Guild

Biddulph Twinning Association

Biddulph U3a

Biddulph Ukulele and Music Makers Club

BUG (Biddulph Ukulele Group)

Biddulph Youth & Community Zone

Brown Lees & District Community Association

Chatterley Vics Football Club

Christ Church, Biddulph Moor

Friends of Newpool Meadows

Greenway Moor Women’s Institute

Inner Wheel Club of Biddulph

Kingsfield Singers Ladies Choir

Knypersley Cricket Club

St John’s Church, Knypersley

Lifestream Church

Moorlands Voluntary & Community Transport

Rotary Club of Biddulph

Royal Air Force Air Cadets 2151 Squadron

St Lawrence’s Church, Biddulph

Staffordshire Moorlands Family Hub

Staged Dance & Drama Group

The Green Tree House Food Club & Tea Room

The Hideaway Cafe

The Royal Oak

Tribe Dance Academy

All groups were presented with a badge and certificate. Here’s some photos of volunteers being thanked and presented with their certificates by Councillor Nigel Yates, Biddulph’s Mayor 2024-2025:

Gaynor Moreton and Karen Sayer

Approach Staffordshire (Dementia Support)

Jane Keeling

Biddulph Local People’s Group

David Ludlow

Biddulph & District Probus Club

Ellen Roberts

Biddulph Community Sewing Group

Rev Yanyan Case

Biddulph Methodist Church

Robert Arrowsmith

Biddulph Moor Beavers, Cubs, Scouts & Explorers

Civic Awards 

Voted for by members of the public.

Culture

This award recognises an individual or groups work that has made an outstanding contribution to the arts in Biddulph. This could include art, music, craft and photography, film, theatre etc.

 The Culture award was presented by Councillor Adrian Lawton: ‘There were a number of nominations for this group, all of whom praised the members for singing for the people of Biddulph for over 100 years and being winners of local and national awards that spread the name of Biddulph across the country. They have supported the Town Council with civic events and raising funds for the Mayor’s Charities.’

Winner: Biddulph Male Voice Choir

The photo below shows Councillor Adrian Lawton presenting Ian Barber of Biddulph Male Voice Choir with their Culture award.

Business

This award recognises a local business that has gone above and beyond. This can also be a business that promotes Biddulph as a visitor destination, such as a campsite, B&B, visitor site, or local attraction.

The Business award was presented by Councillor Wayne Rogers: ‘We found this category impossible to choose as the nominees are all excellent in their own fields. Three winners were celebrated.

Providing great entertainment brings the community together. This is a safe place supporting the town centre with new and innovative ideas. The Town Council appreciates their advice and support in raising the profile of the town.’

Winner: The Royal Oak

The photo below shows Councillor Wayne Rogers presenting Steve Cannon of The Royal Oak with their Business award.

‘A hardworking friendly team offer a welcoming environment to new visitors to the town or regulars, enhancing the tourism offer. A ‘hidden gem’ in a beautiful Country Park.’

Winner: The Hideaway Café

The photo below shows Councillor Wayne Rogers presenting Cath Brandall of The Hideaway Cafe with their Business award.

‘The team here go above and beyond, supporting the community to access food and other services. Always seeking ways to work in partnership with others, and now enhancing our High Street with two premises.’

Winner: The Green Tree House Food Club & Tea Room

The photo below shows Councillor Wayne Rogers presenting Yvonne Bennison and Alicia Bennison of The Green Tree House with their Business award.

Community Wellbeing

This award recognises an individual or group that has gone above and beyond in supporting the people of Biddulph. This could be people who deliver food or medication, check in on their neighbour’s well-being, Food Bank / Free Food, etc.

The Community Wellbeing award was presented by Councillor Adam Parkes; two winners were celebrated:

‘A founding member of the Biddulph Local Peoples Group, this winner runs two groups every week supporting all the members to try new activities and make new friends, tackling social isolation and loneliness. She is also a crucial member of the Transport Working Group.

Winner: Margaret Jackson

The photo below shows Councillor Adam Parkes presenting Margaret Jackson with her Community Wellbeing award.

‘This individual is part of the Friday Coffee Morning at Biddulph Library – an expert in washing up! He is very welcoming and inclusive, looks out for new people and has been particularly supportive to people who have recently been bereaved.’

Winner: Terry McHugh

The photo below shows Councillor Adam Parkes presenting Terry McHugh with his Community Wellbeing award.

Environmental

This award recognises great work and contribution towards caring for the natural and built environment. These people are inspiring and innovative, putting the environment at the heart of their activities.

The Environmental award was presented by the Council’s Chief Officer, Mrs Sarah Haydon; two winners were celebrated:

‘You will often see our winners around town weeding, planting and clearing for the benefit of our community. Come rain or shine they can be called upon to plant trees and make our town beautiful. They are long-serving members of Biddulph in Bloom and have been a great support to the Town Council.’

Winners: John Leason and Jean Nixon

The photo below shows Mrs Sarah Haydon presenting John Leason and Jean Nixon with their Environmental awards.

Sport

This award recognises a group or individuals sporting achievement for Biddulph. Be it playing, organising, or contributing to sporting development.

The Sport award was presented by Councillor Neil Eardley. There were two winners:

‘The first winner offers a wide range of dance opportunities and showcases the skills of their young people at regional dance competitions. They show just how amazing Biddulph people are! Children make friends for life at this group!’

Winner: Tribe Dance Academy

‘This football club has grown significantly over the past five years accommodating around 150 children from u6 to u16, male and female, playing across three leagues. There are 35 volunteer coaches developing the children both physically and mentally as they progress through their football journey. The club works with local schools to improve their sports facilities and has been granted over £20,000 investment for improvements to facilities. It is a pleasure to watch them grow.’

Winner: Chatterley Vics Football Club 

The photo below shows Councillor Neil Eardley presenting Rob Menzies of Chatterley Vics Football Club with their Sport award.

Youth

This award recognises an individual or group of young people aged 18 and under who have made an outstanding contribution to their local area of Biddulph as a whole. This could include physical or social media activities.

The Youth award was presented by Councillor Jill Salt; there were two winners:

‘These young people support other young people in a youth work environment, significantly impacting the community by engaging them in positive activities and reducing crime rates. They organise targeted programs and initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by young people, particularly those at risk of falling into criminal behaviour.’

Winner: Biddulph Youth and Community Zone Youth Leaders

The photo below shows Councillor Jill Salt presenting Antony Capostagno of Biddulph Youth & Community Zone with their Youth award.

‘This group provides an amazing opportunity for Biddulph’s young people through the provision of a range of youth theatre projects. They run regular weekly sessions in dance and drama offering young people the chance to learn theatre skills. Their holiday workshops offer both performance and technical theatre skills for young people. The ‘Seniors’ have taken on new roles, creating, writing, producing and performing new material. These are then showcased to the people of Biddulph enriching the cultural scene in the town and attracting people from outside the town.’

Winner: Staged Dance and Drama

The photo below shows Councillor Jill Salt presenting Angela Williams and Katie Thompson of Staged Dance & Drama with their Youth award.

Outstanding Contribution

This award recognises an individual’s continued commitment to the community over an extended period.

There were three winners in the Outstanding Contribution category, presented by Councillor Nigel Yates, Mayor of Biddulph 2024-2025.

‘This winner sits on several committees which make the communities of Biddulph and Biddulph Moor a better place, including Biddulph Moor Village Hall Committee, Biddulph Moor Community Association, Biddulph Festival, the Twinning Committee and she plays a key role in the production of “What’s on the Moor”.

Winner: Jacky Nevill

The photo below shows Councillor Nigel Yates presenting Jacky Nevill with her Outstanding Contribution award.

‘With years of commitment to the Brownies, Royal British Legion and a whole range of community initiatives. She is in inspiration to young people and those who have served their country. Where would the Biddulph Festival be without her trolley!’

Winner: Elaine Rice                    

The photo below shows Councillor Nigel Yates presenting Elaine Rice with her Outstanding Contribution award.

‘With an incredible energy and enthusiasm for reducing food waste and supporting those in our community to access food and the other services that they need. She is innovative, caring and an advocate for all who need her. Playing a fundamental role in the Biddulph Works Together project.’

Winner: Jackie Menzies

The photo below shows Councillor Nigel Yates presenting Jackie Menzies with her Outstanding Contribution award.

The evening ended with a toast to Biddulph’s volunteers and community groups and to Biddulph.

A big thank you to everyone who attended. Biddulph Town Council appreciates all that you do in our community.

We’re planning on this becoming an annual event. If you’d like your group to be included in the future, please make sure you’re included in our Clubs, Groups and Societies booklet.