Congleton Celebrates Local Heroes at Inaugural Civic Awards and Annual Town Meeting

Congleton Town Hall was filled with pride, applause, and a true sense of community spirit last night (Thursday 15 May), as residents, councillors, community groups and visiting mayors gathered for the launch of the Town Mayor’s Civic Awards, followed by the Annual Town Meeting.

Hosted by Congleton Town Mayor Councillor Kay Wesley, the event honoured Congleton’s unsung heroes—those who give their time, energy, and kindness to make the town a better place for all. This marks the first year of the Civic Awards, an initiative by Congleton Town Council to formally recognise exceptional voluntary service.

Town Mayor Cllr Wesley said, in her opening remarks:

“It’s been a joy and an honour to shine a light on the inspiring individuals who make Congleton such a vibrant, caring town,”

“This evening was about celebrating our community—and every nominee should feel proud of their incredible contribution.”

Six awards were presented in front of a full audience in true Oscar style!

Award recipients were:

• Community Involvement Award: Sue Taylor – a guiding light in Girl Guiding for decades. Award collected on her behalf by Rebecca Franklin.
• Young Volunteer Award: Jack Mead – for his environmental and community work at Hillary Avenue Friendship Garden.
• Environment Award: Patti Pinto – a passionate advocate for sustainable greening, Congleton in Bloom, and biodiversity.
• Wellbeing Award: Dr. Deborah Lawson – for championing accessibility and inclusion in Congleton and her unwavering commitment to supporting others.
• Good Neighbour Award: Lesley Turner – for founding the Friends of Bromley Farm Hub and creating a space of belonging and support.
• Unsung Hero Award: Ruth Benson – for her quiet leadership of the Trees for Congleton campaign, responsible for planting over 30,000 trees across the town.

Recipient of the Wellbeing Award Dr. Deborah Lawson said:

“Receiving the award was such a lovely surprise, I honestly didn't expect to win at all, I was hugely touched even to be nominated, it still hasn't sunk in! What made it especially meaningful was that it came from my own local community—and on the eve of Global Accessibility Awareness Day, which made it all the more special.”

Janet Hackett, one of the finalists commented:

“Most volunteers are incredibly modest—they do what they do simply to help others, not for recognition. The joy and fulfilment they get from giving back is reward enough. So, to be nominated, become a finalist, or even win an award really is the icing on the cake. The winners were truly deserving, and their amazing stories will inspire all of us to keep doing our part for this wonderful community.”

Each awardee was celebrated with a certificate and Civic lapel pin, followed by a group photograph and reception in Bluey’s for all finalists and guests.

Following the awards, the Annual Town Meeting began at 7pm—a key opportunity for residents to ask questions, and learn about the work of the Town Council.

Chaired by Cllr Wesley, the meeting covered:

• The Neighbourhood Plan and Corporate Strategic Plan 2025–2029
• CIL funding and town centre improvements
• Environmental and sustainability goals
• Ongoing work to ensure Congleton is inclusive for all

A lively Q&A and open forum followed, allowing residents to voice their concerns directly to their local councillors.

Town Mayor, Cllr Kay Wesley said:

“The Annual Town Meeting is a vital part of local democracy, it gives residents a platform to be heard, to ask questions, and to help shape the future of our town. The turnout and level of engagement this year show just how much people care about Congleton’s direction—and that’s incredibly encouraging.”

Printed copies of the Annual Report are available from Congleton Information Centre.

The Annual Report, along with the Corporate Strategic Plan 2025–2029, can also be viewed online:

Publications - Congleton Town Council

For more information contact Congleton Information Centre on:

01260 270350 ext 1

...or email:

info@congleton-tc.gov.uk

Pictured - Award Winners (L-R) Ruth Benson, Dr Deborah Lawson, Lesley Turner, Cllr Kay Wesley, Jack Mead, Rebecca Franklin, Patti Pinto.