Congleton Celebrates Community Champions at Civic Awards 2026

Congleton Town Hall was packed to capacity on Thursday 14 May as finalists, volunteers, community organisations, family, and friends gathered for the Congleton Civic Awards 2026 presentation during the town’s Annual Town Meeting.

The awards were presented by Town Mayor, Councillor Robert Brittain, Deputy Town Mayor, Councillor Suzy Firkin, and Chair of the Community Committee, Councillor Kay Wesley, celebrating the extraordinary individuals and organisations who make a lasting difference across Congleton.

The evening recognised volunteers, charities, environmental champions, community groups, young people, and unsung heroes whose dedication helps make Congleton a stronger, kinder, and more vibrant town.

Speaking after the ceremony, Town Mayor Councillor Robert Brittain said:

“It was truly inspiring to see the Town Hall filled with so many people who give their time selflessly to support others and improve our community. The standard of nominations this year was exceptional, and every finalist should feel incredibly proud. These awards are about recognising the people and groups who quietly make Congleton such a special place to live.”

The mayor added:

“Behind every nomination was a powerful story of kindness, commitment, and community spirit. It was an honour to celebrate these remarkable individuals and groups. I would also like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to submit nominations and help shine a light on the incredible people making such a positive difference across Congleton.”

Award Recipients

Arts and Culture Award presented to: Sergey Kamenskiy – Congleton Museum

Sergey was recognised for his outstanding leadership and contribution to Congleton Museum. Since arriving in the town, he has helped guide the museum through a challenging period as trustee and co-chair, securing funding, supporting major projects, and helping shape a stronger future for the organisation.

Finalists:

• Susan Munro – Elizabeth’s Group

Community Involvement Award presented to:

Ian Carter – No Tier Snooker

Ian was recognised for founding No Tier Snooker, the UK’s first initiative supporting people with early onset and frontotemporal dementia through snooker. Since launching in January 2025, the project has grown into a thriving support network reducing isolation and improving wellbeing for participants and carers alike.

Highly Commended:

Anthony Bolding - Beartown Rickshaw

Anthony was recognised for founding Beartown Rickshaw, which provides free rides and companionship for less mobile residents, care home users, and people with additional needs across Congleton.

Ian Carter, No Tier Snooker said:

“I’m incredibly proud that No Tier Snooker has been recognised in this way. What started with just a few people around a snooker table has grown into something very special. This award belongs to everyone involved — our players, carers, volunteers, and supporters. Together we’re proving the importance of friendship, connection, and community.”

Finalists:

• Andrew Brown
• John Davies
• Dorothy Dentith
• Sarah Richards
• Alec and Val Scaresbrook

Environment Award presented to:

Alyssa Baines – Big Clothes Movement

Alyssa was recognised for her commitment to sustainability through the Big Clothes Movement. Her work delivering clothes swap events, educational programmes, and community initiatives has helped divert thousands of kilograms of clothing from landfill while encouraging more sustainable habits.

Highly Commended:

Jo Lancaster – Rotary Congleton

Jo was recognised for inspiring practical environmental action across Congleton through planting schemes, wildlife projects, and community engagement initiatives.

Finalists:

• Andy Bailey – Bins of Congleton
• Rebecca Franklin

Good Neighbour Award presented to:

Moira Hagon

Moira was recognised for her lifelong dedication to helping others through Trinity Church, Westwood House coffee shop, local fundraising, practical support, hospital visits, and companionship for residents across the town.

Wellbeing Award presented to:

Diane Ritherdon – Dementia Friendly Congleton

Diane was recognised for her exceptional dedication to supporting people living with dementia and their families through Dementia Friendly Congleton, creating a welcoming and inclusive support network within the town.

Finalists:

• Andy Bowyer – Mentell Congleton
• Ian Carter – No Tier Snooker
• Jonathan Dakin – White Ribbon Ambassador

Young Volunteer Award presented to:

Dan Smith

Dan was recognised for giving more than 150 volunteer hours to environmental improvement projects including Bromley Farm in Bloom, helping maintain green spaces and support neighbourhood initiatives across Congleton.

Finalists:

• Paulo Thompson

Team Award presented to:

Congleton Live

Congleton Live was recognised for delivering the town’s hugely successful music festivals, including Congleton Unplugged and the Jazz & Blues Festival, helping bring thousands of visitors into the town while supporting local venues, businesses, and artists.

Mark Bailey from Congleton Live said: “We’re absolutely delighted to receive this award. Congleton Live is powered entirely by volunteers and supported by an incredible network of venues, musicians, sponsors, and supporters. The festivals are all about bringing people together through live music and showcasing everything that’s great about Congleton.”

Finalists:

• Congleton Communicare
• Congleton Museum
• Forget-me-not Group – New Life Church
• St John’s Luncheon Club
• The Old Saw Mill Lunch Club
• Trees for Congleton

Unsung Hero Award presented to:

Alec and Val Scaresbrook

Selected by the judging panel from nominees across all categories. this award recognises those whose dedication often happens quietly, consistently, and without seeking recognition. Alec and Val were recognised for their tireless work improving accessibility and inclusion in Congleton through Congleton Sustainable Travel and the Town Council’s Equal Access Group, helping remove barriers for residents with mobility needs.

The Civic Awards concluded with a standing ovation for all finalists and volunteers, recognising the extraordinary contribution made by individuals and organisations across the town every day.

Pictured - Civic Awards Finalists.