Do you know a borough hero?

You can nominate someone for an award, or find out more information, here. 

Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is once again shining the spotlight on community champions of all ages whose actions have a positive impact across the borough.

The council’s popular awards scheme is one of the legacies from year-long celebrations in 2023 marking the 850th anniversary of the borough’s first royal charter.

There are four categories: Young Hero, Lifetime Achievement, Sporting Hero, and – for the first time – Civic Pride in a nod to the council’s new initiative to boost pride in Newcastle-under-Lyme and strengthen its reputation as a place which is clean, safe and friendly.

The awards ceremony is now taking place at Keele in Town in Newcastle town centre on Tuesday, 8 April following the death of Mayor Barry Panter. The closing date for entries has subsequently been extended to midnight on Sunday, 16 March.

Council Leader Simon Tagg said: “I’m delighted to announce that entries are now being accepted for the latest Borough Heroes Awards. The fantastic 850th anniversary celebrations in 2023 recognised all that is good about the borough so it’s great to carry on that tradition by celebrating the invaluable contribution of residents in helping to make Newcastle-under-Lyme such a great place to live.

“Our communities are the bedrock of this borough and they in turn rely on the inspiring people within them who give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.”

In 2024, Dr. Michael Salt was declared Community Champion for his involvement in the campaign against odours from Walleys Quarry Landfill and his volunteering role at Apedale Valley Light Railway. “Young Hero” Declan Mason was recognised for his remarkable growth within the Scouts movement and “Sporting Hero” Luisa Mackey received applause for being the driving force behind thriving community organisation Audley Striders. Meanwhile, Vera Bloor was presented with the Lifetime Achievement accolade for her exemplary service, not only for completing 30 years in the police force, but also for serving as a magistrate and District Commissioner for Newcastle District Scouts.

This year’s awards are sponsored by Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) and Chesterton-based business TMT First.