Borough heroes celebrate sweet success
A local historian who is the driving force behind the preservation of Kidsgrove’s heritage is celebrating today after scooping the top accolade in an annual competition.
Philip Leese is the winner of the Lifetime Achievement award in Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council’s fourth Borough Heroes Awards for showing passion, generosity and lifelong commitment in promoting his hometown’s identity.
After more than three decades, the former librarian continues to collect stories, document community memory and share local history through books, talks, walks and a long-standing weekly group. His encyclopaedic knowledge is relied upon and his published works have become essential reading for anyone interested in the area’s past.
The council invited Philip and other inspirational residents, groups and organisations – who all make an outstanding contribution to borough life – to a ceremony at Keele in Town last night after they were nominated for recognition in Business Community, Civic Pride, Lifetime Achievement and Young Hero categories.
Philip said:
When I sat there listening to what all the other finalists had done I assumed I was just there to make the numbers up! I was truly shocked when my name was read out. I’m delighted to have won the award but I really wasn’t expecting it. It means a lot to me and hopefully for the history and heritage of Kidsgrove.”
The exceptional community impact of Newcastle District Scouts – resulting in approximately 1,000 young people being supported every week – has earned it the inaugural Civic Pride (Organisation) accolade. For more than a century, the local scout branch has helped youngsters across the borough to develop valuable skills, confidence and character, with volunteers contributing more than 33,000 hours each year to deliver inclusive and adventurous opportunities.
Philip Pritchard has received the Civic Pride (Individual) title for displaying extraordinary dedication, resilience and love for his local community. Philip spends countless hours every week litter picking, clearing fly-tipping and trimming branches at the Wammy in Knutton. He also volunteers at Parkrun events and supports his neighbours.
Council Leader Simon Tagg said:
Our Borough Heroes Awards is a meaningful legacy from the 850th anniversary celebrations; it reflects and further builds pride in our loyal and ancient borough. It’s a wonderful opportunity to honour those who quietly give their time and energy to others, helping to make Newcastle-under-Lyme such a special place to live, work and visit.
We received a high number of entries this year which is fantastic. Every nominee should feel incredibly proud, and our winners truly represent the very best of the area. Their dedication helps to make it a stronger, greener, kinder and more connected place.”
Sarah Edwards – described as courageous, compassionate and mature – was presented with the Young Hero award. In addition to daily caring responsibilities, Sarah helps her wider community by raising money for local charities, contributing to a foodbank and well-being initiatives alongside playing an active role in improving support for people with disabilities through her work at Martec Training.
The first Business Community Hero award went to AMB Insurance, from Wolstanton, for building an exceptional partnership with the Peter Pan Centre which supports children with special educational needs and disabilities. Their team has embraced fundraising – raising £25,000 last year – and volunteer their time, skills and networks to champion the charity.
Betley Bonfire Committee, Faith Beech, Jake Cassidy, Jane Williams, Millie Dyde, PH Productions, The Feeding Café and Tomasz Putynkowski received highly commended recognition. More information will be available here.
This year’s event is sponsored by Capital & Centric, Ironmarket Wealth, Keele University, Newcastle & Stafford Colleges Group, Newcastle-under-Lyme Business Improvement District and TMT First.