Nicola Burndred
A mum who channelled the grief at losing her son into fundraising for charity has raised more than £104,000 in his name.
Nicola Burndred, from Biddulph, started fundraising just a week after the death of her teenage son.
Jordan Burndred died in October 2015, aged just 17. He had suffered a heart attack while on holiday in Turkey.
Nicola immediately felt the need to be strong for her other children and to do something for others. She organised a family fun day the following month.
Soon, the fundraising snowballed. Now she organises the likes of cake sales and tombolas alongside bigger events to drum up cash for Cardiac Risk in the Young in Jordan’s name.
The money has allowed Nicola to hold screening sessions in Biddulph and Newcastle-under-Lyme, enabling people aged 14 to 35 to have their hearts checked. It has also helped to get four defibrillators installed in North Staffordshire.
Nicola has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards.
Her nominator said: “Nicola has raised more than £104,000 after losing her son. She raises awareness and funds for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young. She needs to be recognised for her amazing efforts in helping so many young people. She’s an inspiration to many.”
Nicola said it was a bittersweet feeling to be nominated for a Your Heroes Award as next Wednesday will be the anniversary of Jordan’s death.
She said: “Things happen in mysterious ways and nice things like being nominated for an award can happen at a bad time.
“It’s important to keep talking about Jordan and Cardiac Risk in the Young because we need to keep raising awareness and encouraging people to donate. The screening CRY offers isn’t available on the NHS.”
The heart screening sessions that Nicola helps to fun cost £7,500 per day. The next screening day is coming up in February. More information is available at https://www.c-r-y.org.uk/jordan-burndred/
Tamzin Worthen
University of Staffordshire student Tamzin Worthen is continuing with her studies despite undergoing treatment for cancer – and she also finds time to volunteer for charity.
The 24-year-old, from Werrington, is in the third year of a health and social care course and aims to have a career in social work after she graduates.
In June she had surgery to remove part of her pancreas after a cancer diagnosis and faces a lengthy and challenging recovery process.
She is a lead charity shop volunteer for Midlands Air Ambulance and was recently presented with a Charity Shop Volunteer of the Year Award by the charity.
Tamzin has now been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer category of the Your Heroes Awards by her proud mum, Sarah Worthen.
Sarah said: “Tamzin’s unwavering dedication to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, alongside her rigorous studies at University of Staffordshire, exemplifies extraordinary commitment, courage and community spirit. Having volunteered with the charity for over a year Tamzin quickly stepped up to become a Lead Volunteer.
“She consistently goes above and beyond, dedicating extra hours and additional days without hesitation, driven by a deep and genuine passion for the cause.
“In January, following a bout of flu, Tamzin underwent a routine ultrasound due to having a single kidney, which unexpectedly revealed a concerning anomaly. In June, following a successful yet major surgical procedure to remove part of her pancreas after a diagnosis of cancer, she faces a lengthy and challenging recovery process.
“At just 24 years old she navigated profound physical hurdles, significant complications and permanent lifestyle adjustments, including strict pre-meal medication regimens, with remarkable grace.
“Despite the immense gravity of her diagnosis and the rigorous 12-month recovery that follows, Tamzin’s spirit remained unbroken. Refusing to let adversity stand in her way, she has returned to her university studies and seamlessly resumed her vital role at the charity shop, approaching her work with the same enthusiasm as though nothing had changed.
“Tamzin’s fierce determination, resilience and optimism in the face of life-altering circumstances are nothing short of inspiring. She is a shining asset to both University of Staffordshire and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and her unwavering strength makes her a truly worthy recipient of this recognition.”
Gemma Thomas
Gemma Thomas is dedicated to making Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire a greener, more creative and more connected place to live.
A former director of arts organisation Appetite, Gemma is now UHNM Charity’s project manager for arts where she leads on arts projects for the benefit of patients, families and staff at the Royal Stoke and Stafford County Hospitals.
Alongside her full-time job she has a number of community and voluntary roles including being the founder of Brilliant Bamboo CIC which delivers free creative, environmental and wellbeing projects.
She is chair of the advisory board for The Portland Inn Project, a trustee of Stoke Creates and sits on Meir North Pride in Place Neighbourhood Board.
Gemma has been nominated in the Civic Pride and Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year categoroes of the Your Heroes Awards by Rebekah Whitfield-Lyne.
Rebekah said: “Gemma works tirelessly to secure grants and funding so that families, children, schools and community groups can enjoy opportunities that are completely free to attend.
“What impresses me most is the scale of what she has achieved. Gemma has transformed an ambitious idea into an organisation that brings together artists, schools, volunteers, businesses, charities and public organisations to create projects that benefit the whole community.
“From transforming a former brownfield site into an inspiring community space, to engaging more than 120 young people in one creative learning event, hosting the UK’s Bamboo Summit and creating free family activities, she is making a lasting difference to our area.
“I have attended one of Brilliant Bamboo’s family workshops and saw firsthand the welcoming atmosphere Gemma creates. Children were making clay creations, weaving colourful ribbons together and taking part in activities that encouraged creativity, confidence and teamwork. It was wonderful to see families spending quality time together in an environment where everyone felt included.
“What makes Gemma exceptional is that she achieves all of this while working full time at the hospital. She spends her own time applying for grants, organising volunteers, building partnerships and creating opportunities that simply would not exist without her dedication. She has also inspired local organisations, businesses and volunteers to contribute their own time, skills and resources, creating a community that works together for the benefit of others.
“Gemma doesn’t do any of this for recognition. She does it because she genuinely believes everyone deserves access to creative experiences, green spaces and a strong sense of community. Her passion, leadership and selflessness have already touched countless lives, and I have no doubt she will continue to inspire many more.
“For everything she has achieved, and for the difference she continues to make every single day, I believe Gemma is a truly deserving recipient of a Your Heroes Award.”
Gemma said: “I feel very humble and very privileged to have lots of people that support and champion and connect with the work that I do. That’s volunteers, people that attend and the people that give me stuff because I’m cheeky and I ask them for things.”
Pam Spall
Pam Spall is still volunteering at the age of 83 after a lifetime dedicated to helping others and making serious community impact.
She can often be found working behind the reception desk at YMCA North Staffordshire where she is treated like everyone’s favourite gran.
Pam, from Alsager, began her volunteering decades ago when she started projects that have gone on to become Action Line and also Furniture Mine.
She has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Sharon Richards, Deputy CEO at YMCA North Staffordshire.
Sharon said: “Pam has spent a lifetime helping people in North Staffordshire and her commitment is as strong today as it has ever been.
“More than 30 years ago Pam ran Action Line, a not-for-profit social action broadcasting project on BBC Radio Stoke. Every hour it matched local people with the help and advice they needed and it received around 10,000 calls a year.
“When Pam saw that people could not move into new homes because they had no furniture she did not just make appeals on air, she brought local people together, secured funding from the council and helped set up Furniture Mine. That enterprise lives on today as the largest furniture and household charity shop in North Staffordshire, still tackling furniture poverty.
“For many years Pam has also volunteered at YMCA North Staffordshire and the young people we support love her. She turns up week after week, whatever challenges she is facing, bringing warmth, encouragement and a steady presence. Her consistency matters enormously. She shows our young people, by example, what it means to give your time freely and to care about your community.
“Pam keeps the volunteering spirit alive. She does not look for recognition, which is exactly why she deserves it. Her legacy can be seen across Stoke-on-Trent, in the services she helped create and the lives she continues to touch. I can think of no one more deserving of Volunteer of the Year.”
Alongside her volunteering, Pam is a member of Alsager’s Can’t Sing Choir.
She said: “It’s just things I enjoy doing. I like to speak to people and have a bit of a laugh because the alternative is you ruin your life. I like talking to people and my husband is really deaf so he’s not much of a talker.
“I would recommend volunteering to anyone. You pick up so many skills.”
Tom Wilson
Bullseye – Tom Wilson has raised more than £108,000 for charity by staging darts events.
The 35-year-old from Longton holds darts competitions and curry nights at venues around Stoke-on-Trent in aid of Prostate Cancer UK.
He began his fundraising in 2017 after people close to him were diagnosed with the condition.
Tom said: “It was my gran that gave me the inspiration. Before she died she asked me to do something more positive with my life because I wasn’t in a good way at the time.
“I started fundraising after I saw an advert and it’s given me a more positive outlook on life and a better future.
“One of my friends had prostate cancer, my uncle had it and a lot of the top darts players are supporting it as a cause.
“When I started I wanted to raise £10,000 and now I’ve reached more than £108,000.”
Tom has been nominated as a Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year in the Your Heroes Awards by some of the people he’s met on his fundraising journey.
One nominator said: “Tom is a very good fundraiser who puts his heart and soul into fundraising and fully deserves the award. He works tirelessly for Prostate Cancer UK. Thank you for all you do, Tom.”
A second person said: “He works so hard and puts others first. We are so proud of Tom.”
Tom added: “It’s phenomenal to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award and such a shock to have so many people say good things about me.”
Rebecca Done
Rebecca Done has gone from competing in the TV show Pop Idol alongside Gareth Gates and Will Young to becoming the Mayor of Leek and singing for people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
The 47-year-old, from Leek, has released three singles and used the proceeds to fund a luncheon club for pensioners which ran for around five years.
She has been a town councillor in Leek, a district councillor for Staffordshire Moorlands, was Deputy Mayor of Leek from 2015 to 2016 and Mayor of Leek from 2016 to 2017.
Rebecca has sung professionally across the UK and Europe, including with Daniel O’Donnell, and now dedicates her time to performing in care homes across Staffordshire, Derbyshire and Cheshire. She tours three shows, including a World War Two tribute.
She said: “Music does repair brain damage and helps people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia. I’ve sung in all sorts of different places then came back and have spent the last 12 years singing for older people.”
Rebecca has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Robert Whittaker.
He said: “I would like to nominate Rebecca in recognition of her extraordinary and longstanding commitment to her community, older people, charities and the causes that matter to her.
“Rebecca has spent much of her life in entertainment but what makes her truly deserving of recognition is what she has chosen to do with her experience and talents.
“One of the things that demonstrates her commitment particularly clearly is a luncheon club for over-60s in her hometown, which she launched and solely funded herself. Rather than simply talking about the importance of tackling loneliness and bringing older people together, Rebecca saw a need and did something about it.
“In more recent years Rebecca has chosen to bring her music and entertainment directly to care homes, where she performs for residents and uses music to bring back memories, create conversation, encourage smiles and provide companionship. She understands that entertainment for older people is not simply about putting on a show. For many residents, particularly those living with dementia, familiar songs can unlock memories and emotions that might otherwise be difficult to reach.”
Rebecca is a Dementia Friend and has raised funds for Dementia UK through a sponsored walk. Over the years she has supported and raised money for charities including the RSPCA, Dementia UK, Alzheimer’s Society, Royal British Legion, Cancer Research UK, Macmillan Cancer Support, The Children’s Place, The King’s Trust, Save the Children, Samaritans and Veterans’ Foundation.
Robert added: “Rebecca has the unusual ability to walk into a room and make people feel that they matter. Whether she is entertaining care-home residents, bringing back memories through wartime songs, organising something for older people, raising money for charity or simply sitting and talking with someone who needs company, she gives people her time and attention.
“Her career may have put her in the spotlight but her greatest contribution has often been made away from it. Rebecca doesn’t simply perform for people, she performs for a purpose. She has spent a lifetime bringing people together, raising spirits, supporting charities and using music to create moments of happiness and connection. Her contribution to the community is not a single achievement, it is a pattern that has continued throughout her life.”
Rebecca said she felt flattered to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award and that there are many people who have done more to earn such an accolade.
She added: “I hope that me being nominated will highlight the work of the people I work alongside to help people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.”
Sharon and Jon Clarke
Pub landlords Sharon and Jon Clarke have set up a community pantry for people in hardship and raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Dougie Mac Hospice.
The couple, who have run The Ashwood in Longton for 14 years, also raised the funds to install a defibrillator and a bleed control kit which have both since been used in real life emergencies.
Every Christmas they put together hundreds of food hampers for people in need and fill the pub with toys for families.
Sharon, aged 58, and Jon, aged 53, have been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards.
Their nominator said: “Sharon and Jon are much more than the landlord and landlady of the Ashwood pub. They are at the heart of their community, quietly helping people when they need it most and, in some cases, helping to save lives.
“Over a number of years Sharon and Jon have raised tens of thousands of pounds for the Dougie Mac, giving their time, energy and the platform of their business to support one of our area’s most important charities. But their contribution goes much further.
“They raised the funds to install a defibrillator at the Ashwood as well as a bleed control kit. These were not simply well-intentioned additions to the pub, both have already been called upon in real emergencies and used to help save lives. That alone demonstrates the extraordinary impact Sharon and Jon have had on their local community.
“They also run the Ashwood Community Pantry, supporting individuals and families from across the city who are experiencing hardship. Working with referrals from within the community and crisis support services, they make sure that people facing incredibly difficult circumstances can access food and essential items with dignity.
“At Christmas that commitment becomes even more visible through their annual Christmas Toy Appeal. At a time when many families are struggling with the cost of living Sharon and Jon help ensure parents who may otherwise be unable to afford presents have something for their children to open on Christmas morning.
“The hospitality industry has faced enormously challenging trading conditions yet Sharon and Jon have continued to find the time, resources and determination to support others while running their own business.
“Sharon has faced significant ongoing health battles including developing sepsis on numerous occasions over recent years. Despite everything she has been through her instinct, alongside Jon, has remained to help other people.
“There are people across Stoke-on-Trent whose lives have been made safer, easier or simply a little brighter because Sharon and Jon decided to do something.
“Sharon and Jon don’t do these things for recognition. They do them because they genuinely care about the people and the city around them. That is exactly what a community hero should be. This award could not go to two more deserving people.”
Sharon said she was surprised to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award and that the fundraising and community work is only possible because of the support of a core team of pub regulars.
She said: “I’ve got a really good team of people behind me. When we do anything they all take on their own roles to make it help. They always tell me it was my idea but they’re fantastic people.”
Their most recent fundraiser raised more than £3,000 through just one event.
She added: “Someone suggested we put a cardboard box on a window ledge with a tin of soup to be taken by anyone who needs it. I thought we could do better than that.
“We cleared out the main storeroom and turned it into a community pantry with fridge, freezer and shelves for tins. If people can’t get to the pub we go out and deliver to them. A recent example was a lady who had just come out of hospital and was thankful for tea, coffee and a loaf of bread.”
Tina Clements
From raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity to gardening for disabled people, Tina Clements has spent more than 30 years supporting the people of Tamworth.
The former Royal Signals PT instructor, who now runs her own ironing and cleaning business, was recently given the honorary title of Alderwoman by Tamworth Borough Council after serving as a councillor for 16 years.
She has sat in a bath full of beans and walked through the night to raise money, organised free school uniforms for families in need, sold poppies for the Royal British Legion, knitted for charity and recently painted a shed for a veteran.
One fundraising challenge even saw her being taken 100 miles from home and left to find her own way back.
Tina has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by fellow fundraiser Brian Broughton MBE.
Brian said: “I am nominating Tina because she has been very dedicated to the community. I met her when she came out of the Army. She worked with me at a supermarket, that was more than 30 years ago. She has done so much for the community and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for many charities and specifically breast cancer charities.
“She helped disabled people clear their gardens, she just painted a shed for a veteran and organised school uniforms for children who cannot afford new ones. She has been a councillor and chairperson and always has sold poppies for the RBL. She also knits the wooden poppies for remembrance.”
Tina is a former Mayor of Tamworth, long-serving Wilnecote councillor, the dementia ambassador for Tamworth, Royal British Legion Tamworth branch fundraiser and International Women’s Day organiser.
She helped saved Wilnecote Community Centre twice, organised Wilnecote fun day for 15 years, organises an annual Macmillan coffee morning and helped set up a community hub in the youth centre.
Tina, who celebrates her 55th birthday next week, said she felt overwhelmed to have been nominated for a Your Heroes Award Brian, who has been her fundraising comrade for so many years.
She said: “I’m not a person that does things for any sort of reward. I just like to put a smile on someone’s face and that feels reward enough for me.
“I’m a doer. If something needs doing I’d rather just get on and do it myself than fill in forms for someone else to do it.
“I have a lot of older clients with my business who ask if I can help organise someone to do their gardening through the council. Unfortunately that sort of thing has to go through a reporting process and by the time it’s done it might be six weeks. I often just get on and do it myself.”
She said that she and Brian first met in 1996 when they were part of the opening team for Tamworth’s new ASDA supermarket and were soon working together to raise money.
Sophie and Mauro Menchini
The Staffordshire karate club that Mauro and Sophie Menchini launched in 2018 now stages a national competition for around 700 young people.
The Rugeley couple launched GB Open Karate Clubs after recognising a need for a productive outlet for children and teenagers in their local area.
They now have people travelling from around the region for classes and from around the UK for their annual competition. They run on a not-for-profit basis and became a registered charity two years ago.
The annual GB Open Championships, which they stage in Birmingham, provides young martial artists with the opportunity to showcase their talents, challenge themselves and build friendships within a wider karate community.
“We have five to eight-year-olds from all different backgrounds,” said Sophie. “It’s a big deal for them to have an outlet like this. We try to fundraise in between classes and competitions because our parents just don’t have the sort of money needed for competing.
“My husband started from a really young age in lots of different martial arts and I started after I met him. Our son was particularly keen and progressed to world and European level, so martial arts have been a big part of our family life.”
Sophie, aged 49, and Mauro, aged 57, have been nominated in the Sporting Icon and Charity Champion or Volunteer categories of the Your Heroes Awards.
Elizabeth Perry said: “Sophie and Mauro devote countless hours of their spare time to supporting the members of GB Open Karate Clubs. Their passion extends far beyond teaching martial arts; they have created an environment where children and young people can grow in confidence, develop resilience and learn valuable life skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
“Sophie and Mauro have been instrumental in building a welcoming and inclusive family where every child, regardless of their background, ability, or disability, has the opportunity to participate, succeed, and thrive. Their unwavering belief that disability should never be a barrier to participation has helped countless young people gain confidence, self-belief and a sense of belonging.
“Through their leadership, GB Open Karate Clubs have become much more than a sports organisation. They provide a safe and supportive environment where children learn discipline, respect, teamwork, perseverance and good etiquette. Parents consistently report positive changes in their children’s behaviour, focus, confidence and social skills as a direct result of the opportunities and support provided by Sophie and Mauro.”
Sophie added: “It’s lovely to be nominated for a Young Heroes Award and to get the recognition. It does feel special and makes you think that you must be doing a good job.”
Clare Abbott
Clare Abbott defies chronic illness to lead a team of volunteers to support communities in Stoke-on-Trent.
She has been the Charity Manager at The Hive in Blurton for three and a half years, setting up projects to support countless people of all ages and needs.
Stay and play sessions, knit and natter groups, affordable food bags to support people living in food poverty and gentle exercise sessions are just some of the things she has introduced.
The work is supported by a diverse team of 41 volunteers including an 85-year-old and members of the Muslim and LGBTQ communities.
This is against the backdrop of Clare working through Crohn’s disease and having surgery to remove part of her intestine.
“I do try to fly the flag that lots of people have chronic illnesses and still continue with their life,” said Clare. “Some of our volunteers also have chronic illnesses.”
Clare has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Ann Robertson of Voice of Hope.
Ann said: “Clare is an outstanding community champion who gives endlessly to everyone who walks through the doors of our community venue. She is always there with a warm welcome, a listening ear, practical support and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Her kindness, compassion and generosity have made a lasting difference to countless people.
“What makes Clare’s commitment even more remarkable is that she has continued to put others first while facing significant personal challenges. Clare has remained devoted to supporting the community. She has never sought recognition or sympathy and rarely speaks about the difficulties she and her family have faced. Instead, she continues to focus on lifting others up, often putting their needs ahead of her own.
“Clare embodies selflessness, resilience and compassion. She inspires everyone around her through her quiet strength and unwavering dedication. Her impact reaches far beyond the practical help she provides. She creates a sense of belonging, hope and friendship for everyone she meets.
“Clare is a true Staffordshire hero. Her tireless service, courage in the face of adversity and genuine care for others make her exceptionally deserving of this award. I cannot think of anyone more worthy of being recognised for the difference they make every single day.”
Clare stresses that the work of The Hive wouldn’t be possible without the 41 volunteers she works alongside.
She said: “Our volunteers are the heroes. They are the ones that make everything happen. I’m always doing whatever I can to make everyone feel part of our family here at The Hive.”
In the three years that Clare has been in post The Hive has gone from a community centre to a thriving hub which supports people of all ages and needs. Clare has turned it into a place where people feel they can ask for help.
She added: “I was a really young parent and I’ve had to ask for help myself in the past. I’ve always said I would make it really easy for other people to ask for help because I know what it’s like. I know how helpless and how hopeless being in that position can feel. I start off by putting the kettle on.”
Nat Campbell
Nat Campbell set up a not-for-profit café in the midst of her grief after the death of her beloved son and now it’s helping not just her but the people of Longton too.
The University of Staffordshire alumna, who has an undergraduate degree in sociology and a masters in sociology and social justice, set up Scouse’s Snacks as part of U7 Urban Arts Centre in Sutherland Road, Longton, in November 2024.
She takes no salary for her work. She work with a team of volunteers, all of whom are neurodiverse or living with a physical disability.
Nat, who has lived in Bentilee for 23 years, sells good quality home cooked meals as cheaply as possible, feeds homeless people and puts together £6 food bags including everything needed to feed a person for three days. During the heatwave she has been offering free cold water for anyone who needs it.
The 55-year-old stresses that anybody is welcome. The café is autism friendly and there is a break-out area if it’s needed. She’s even had care homes bring their residents in.
Scouse was the nickname of Nat’s late son, Josh, who died at the age of 29. He was a popular member of the community, with more than 600 people attending his funeral. Nat has customers telling her how much he meant to them including one who said she wouldn’t be a teacher now if Josh hadn’t encouraged her to become a mature student.
Nat said: “Scouse’s Snacks has helped me and given me something to focus on. It’s got me out of the house and out of the rabbit hole that I went down after Josh died.
“Before I took it on I was just sitting at home. I wasn’t washing, I wasn’t brushing my teeth, I was just sitting there with a blanket wrapped around me all day.
“It’s taken me 18 months to get to where I am today. Of course there are still times when I can just burst into tears. When you lose a child you don’t just lose a child you lose a lot of friends too. Now I’ve got a group of better friends.”
A whole string of Scouse’s Snacks customers and supporters have nominated Nat in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year categories of the Your Heroes Awards.
Chantelle Huckfield said: “Nat is a credit to the community and shines bright every day. She deserves this nomination and this award. Thank you for everything you do, Nat.”
Kerry Crawford said: “Nat has given three individuals I support who have learning disabilities the chance to volunteer each week and this has impacted their lives in a huge way. They now enjoy their job and have purpose and a place in the community. Nat is proud of Stoke-on-Trent and its heritage and is a champion for every individual who crosses her path.”
Helen Hughes said: “Even when she is in pain Nat shows up at Scouse’s Snacks so she can put smiles on people’s faces.”
Kevin Griffiths
Kevin Griffiths has raised around £200,000 for charity after being diagnosed with bowel cancer six years ago.
The Trentham businessman set up Cancer My Arse as a fundraising platform, to raise awareness and increasingly to encourage people to become ‘cancer ready’ as one in two of us will have our lives closely affected by cancer.
He has undergone 29 rounds of radiotherapy, four major surgeries and will be on intense chemotherapy for the rest of his life, which involves two weeks of chemotherapy followed by a three week break.
The University of Staffordshire alumnus, who has owned and run a number of successful businesses, sold his business interests to concentrate on his treatment, fundraising and spending time with his children, who were aged just nine and 11 years at the time of his first diagnosis.
He said: “I was originally told that I’d have two years without treatment and I’ve already had six years. My children are now aged 16 and 18 and they’ve been such special years for me to enjoy with them and to make the very most of.”
Kevin’s cancer journey began just as Covid-19 was emerging, when he started passing blood. He received quick treatment despite the pandemic and was diagnosed with bowel cancer.
The 50-year-old had his bowel removed and a permanent stoma fitted. 12 months later the cancer had spread to both of his lungs so he had the lower left and top right sections of his lungs removed. He was given the all clear after chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but 12 months later the cancer had returned.
Cancer My Arse has raised money for up to a dozen different causes including the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, Cancer Research, Prostate Cancer and Bowel Cancer charities.
Fundraisers have included cycling events as Kevin and his family have a long history of competitive cycling and his family still owns Swinnerton Cycles. The most recent fundraiser was a bake sale organised by his daughter at Newcastle-under-Lyme College and a big bike ride is being lined up for 2027 with the aim of raising £100,000.
Alongside fundraising Kevin also set out to raise awareness, although he says this has now moved towards encouraging people to be ‘cancer ready’.
He said: “I thought cancer was cancer. I didn’t know there were so many different types of cancer, so many variants.
“It’s one thing being aware of cancer but do people really know and understand that getting an early diagnosis can really help with extending life.
“My message is for people to be cancer ready so they’ll know what to do if they or someone close to them is diagnosed. I’ve had people in tears and having panic attacks on the phone. I’ve been helping them to get onto ChatGPT so that they can understand their diagnosis and keep track of their results. If people are ready then they won’t immediately go into panic mode and they’ll know where to start.
“Cancer My Arse has given me something to do other than walking around the house waiting. It’s given me a purpose and something positive.”
Cancer My Arse has won the support of famous faces including Davina McCall, Bradley Wiggins, Guy Ritchie and Lord Alan Sugar.
Kevin Griffiths has been nominated as Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year in the Your Heroes Awards.
Randhir Singh Heer
A charity set up by Randhir Singh Heer in 2013 now provides more than 150,000 hot meals every month alongside other projects in the UK and overseas.
Midland Langar Seva Society (MLSS) was launched in Walsall and now works in 16 cities around the UK. In Sikhism, langar is a free, vegetarian community kitchen found in a Sikh temple that serves all people regardless of their background.
In October 2013 Randhir set up MLSS as a non-monetary, food-only donation charity to provide langar to people facing food poverty. Having seen the plight of homeless people on the streets of his hometown of Walsall he wanted to do something to help those less fortunate. On that first feed, he provided 15 hot meals to the homeless in his hometown.
Randhir Singh Heer has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Sharondeep Bharaj.
She said: “I have seen the incredible dedication Randhir gives to helping others and the positive difference he continues to make in so many lives. His commitment to supporting vulnerable people, regardless of their background or circumstances, is truly inspiring and deserves recognition.
“Randhir is a person of great kindness, fairness and humility. He has worked tirelessly to build Midland Langar Seva Society into an organisation that provides not only food and practical support but also dignity, compassion and hope to those who need it most. He gives his time selflessly and always puts the needs of others before his own.
“A clear example of this is the annual Christmas Dinner Party he organises for the homeless, vulnerable and less fortunate members of the community. This has grown into one of the largest events of its kind in the UK, welcoming more than 300 guests each year for a full three-course Christmas meal. Guests are also provided with gifts, healthcare support, a Christmas grotto, entertainment from a DJ and carol singers and many small touches that make them feel remembered and valued during the festive season.
“What stands out most is the way Randhir personally connects with the people he serves. He does not create barriers between himself and others. He sits with guests, shares conversations and treats everyone with genuine warmth and respect. He believes strongly that no one is above anyone else and that every person should be treated equally, regardless of religion, race, gender or social background.
“This same fairness extends to the volunteers and staff within MLSS. Randhir leads with integrity and ensures that everyone involved in the organisation feels respected, supported and appreciated. His leadership creates a strong sense of unity and purpose.
“Randhir’s work has had a lasting impact across communities, helping people through hardship while encouraging compassion and positive change. His dedication, humility and service to others make him an outstanding candidate for this honour.”
Randhir Singh Heer said: “Being nominated for a Your Heroes Award is an incredible honour, but this recognition belongs to every volunteer who gives their time, every supporter who believes in our mission and every person we’ve had the privilege to serve. The real heroes are those who choose kindness when no one is watching and compassion when it’s needed most.
“If our work inspires even one more person to reach out and help someone in need then we’ve already achieved something truly special. Awards recognise moments but compassion changes lives and that is the legacy we hope to leave behind.”
Ada Haywood BEM
Former potbank worker Ada Haywood BEM has raised around £1.5 million for charity during decades of fundraising.
The 74-year-old, who made clay handles at Steelite for 32 years, organises an annual Pink Tie Ball and until recently collected donations in supermarkets.
Ada, from Clayton, still gets up at 5.30am to attend business networking meetings to promote her charity work and her loyal supporters ensure tickets for her ball are usually sold out within days.
Her 22nd Pink Tie Ball, which will be held on September 19, is already completely sold out. She raises money for Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.
In 2018 Ada was awarded the British Empire Medal and in 2022 she was a baton carrier for the Queen’s Baton Relay despite having a broken shoulder.
Cancer Research UK has named a room in its London HQ in honour of Ada and her late husband Peter, who had been determined that she should continue fundraising after his death.
Ada has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards by Ben Halstead from the business Sempar.
He said: “Ada’s dedication to improving the lives of others has been both inspiring and impactful.
“Her commitment goes far beyond attendance or participation; she has consistently championed the causes, encouraged others to become involved and helped create an atmosphere of generosity and compassion that has significantly contributed to the event’s success.
“Ada understands the importance of investing in research, prevention and patient support. Her advocacy has helped shine a light on the lifesaving work carried out by Cancer Research and the British Heart Foundation, ensuring that these organisations can continue advancing medical breakthroughs and providing support to those who need it most.
“What sets Ada apart is her genuine passion for helping others. She leads by example, giving her time, energy and enthusiasm to every charitable endeavour she undertakes. Her ability to bring people together in support of worthy causes has inspired friends, colleagues and members of the wider community to contribute and make a difference.
“The success of the Pink Tie Ball is a testament to individuals like Ada, whose generosity and commitment transform fundraising events into meaningful opportunities for change. Her efforts have not only generated valuable financial support but have also fostered greater awareness, community engagement and hope for those affected by cancer and heart disease.
“Ada Haywood exemplifies the very best of charitable leadership, compassion and community spirit. She is a truly deserving recipient of recognition for her outstanding contribution to Cancer Research, the British Heart Foundation and the continued success of the Pink Tie Ball.
“I wholeheartedly recommend Ada Haywood for this award and commend her for the lasting positive impact she has made on so many lives.”
Ada started her fundraising after a neighbour’s wife died from breast cancer at the age of 35. Ada also fundraises in honour of her late husband, Peter
She said: “I don’t do any of the things I do to get awards but it is amazing to be nominated. It’s really good.”
Craig Dagg
Craig Dagg has led his work colleagues at StairBox to raise around £220,000 for the Dougie Mac Hospice over the last five years.
Craig, who is facilities manager at the Trentham Lakes-based business, now has corporate fundraising included in his job description but his charity work usually extends to his evenings and weekends too.
The 41-year-old also become a volunteer for the Dougie Mac 18 months ago, giving his time at the hospice and at hospice events.
He has received a Commendation for Charity Champion from the Dougie Mac and has received an Above and Beyond Award from the Alice Charity.
Craig has now been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.
His nominator said: “Craig is an inspiration when it comes to organising fundraising events and volunteering for local charity Dougie Mac. All of StairBox’s fundraising efforts are organised by Craig along with driving the company’s volunteering days and giving up his own time for them. His dedication is second to none and he is a true charity champion.”
Craig, who has worked at Stairbox for nine years, recently organised a family fun day in Endon and raised £10,000 from just that one event alone.
He said: “When I first moved to Stoke-on-Trent around 11 years ago I didn’t know anyone. A couple took me under their wing and supported me. I ended up calling them my Stokie parents.
“One of them was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The Douglas Macmillan Hospice worked with her and I saw firsthand just how important their work is. I’ve always been charity minded but now I have a massive soft spot for the Dougie Mac and will help them however I can.”
He added: “I don’t do what I do for recognition but of course it’s very nice to be recognised and to be nominated for a Your Heroes Award.”
Neil Washington
Radio presenter and fundraiser Neil Washington has donated more than £5,000 to the Children’s Oncology Unit at Royal Stoke University Hospital in memory of his late mum, Sandra.
Over the last 12 months Neil, also known as Ginjahman, has been fundraising for UHNM Charity through his Reggae Sunshine radio show, book sales and a community fundraising event.
Before hosting an evening of entertainment at Joiners Square Community Centre, Neil had already raised £2,310. Following the event, the total amount raised reached £5,123.45.
Clinical Nurse Specialists Claire Butler, Julie Eaton and Penelope Bate said: “This donation will make such a wonderful difference to all our families and will mean that we can continue to provide all the extra comforts that help support families through very difficult journeys.”
Neil Washington has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards.
Knot Events CIC
Just three years after it was launched by a group of Staffordshire businesswomen, Knot Events CIC has raised more than £200,000 for charities and is on track to raise more than £100,000 at its next large-scale event in November.
Three sports days for businesses, organised by the Knot Events team and staged at University of Staffordshire, have raised more than £30,000 for 10 different charities.
The first Strictly Knot Dancing event, staged at the King’s Hall last November, raised £150,000 for the Dougie Mac, the largest amount ever raised for the hospice through a single event.
Strictly Knot Dancing 2026 is already on track to raise another £100,000 with aspirations to reach last year’s total.
The Knot Events team includes Jenny Johnston from KMF, Hannah Ault DL from Valentine Clay, Josie Morris MBE DL from Woolcool, Fiona Hawkins from Plinkfizz, Sarah Mellor from Beswicks Legal, Tina Holdcroft from Holdcroft Heating, Julie Mirowski from Rydale Roofing, Andrea Heath on behalf of DJH and business strategist Katie Beardmore.
Jenny Johnston said: “The idea for Knot Events came to us after the first University of Staffordshire Business Awards. A few of us were talking afterwards about the need for fundraising events driven by women.
“We started talking about what we could do that’s different to what the men do. We came up with the idea and made it happen.”
David Webster, Chief Executive of the Dougie Mac Hospice, said: “Strictly Knot Dancing has become one of the highlights of our fundraising calendar. Last year’s incredible fundraising total has already helped us continue providing specialist care and support to local people and their families when they need us most. We simply couldn’t achieve this without the dedication of every contestant, sponsor, volunteer and supporter involved.
“I’m delighted to be returning to the judging panel this year and I’m really looking forward to watching our new contestants. There will no doubt be plenty of laughs, a few nerves and some fantastic performances along the way. I wish every contestant the very best of luck… and may the best dancer win!”
The Knot Events Team has been nominated in the Community Group, Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year and Civic Pride categories of the Your Heroes Awards.
Teri Bryce
People sometimes tell Teri Bryce that they wouldn’t still be here if they hadn’t received the support of Walk Talk Action CIC, an organisation she founded.
A former Army combat medic, Teri set up Walk Talk Action to share the coping strategies she used to work through her own problems.
The mum-of-three, from Meir Heath, gave up her job as an ambulance driver in 2019 to work full-time on Walk Talk Action. She had found that being outdoors helped with her own anxiety, trauma and postnatal depression and knew that other people could benefit too.
The group, based at Fenpark, has helped all sorts of people with all sorts of problems including people with depression, postnatal depression, anxiety, midlife crisis, PTSD, isolation and loneliness. She supports all members of the community including veterans.
She gets people outdoors to walk, talk and learn coping techniques to work through their problems one step at a time.
Teri secured a significant National Lottery grant for the group, was gifted a plot of land by the owners of Fenpark Fields and secured the donation of a portable cabin by Churnet Valley Railway to use as a retreat.
Walk Talk Action CIC has been nominated as a Community Group of the Year in the Your Heroes Awards and Teri has been nominated both in the Civic Pride category and as a Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year.
One nominator said: “I would like to nominate Teri in recognition of the life-changing impact she has on people throughout our community.
“Teri dedicates an incredible amount of her time to helping people overcome challenges, improve their wellbeing and take positive steps towards a better future. Through her 10 Step Programme she provides support, encouragement and practical guidance to people who are often struggling with difficult circumstances and looking for hope.
“What makes Teri truly special is her unwavering commitment to helping others. She regularly goes above and beyond what would ever be expected of a volunteer, often working around the clock to find solutions and provide support to those who need it most. No matter how busy she is she always makes time to listen, offer advice and help people find a way forward.
“Many have said that Teri has completely transformed their lives, helping them regain confidence, improve their mental wellbeing and believe in themselves again. Some have even stated that without the support, compassion and guidance she provided during their darkest times, they would not be here today.
“Teri never seeks recognition for what she does. She simply wants to help people build happier, healthier and more positive lives. Her passion, dedication and selflessness have had a profound impact on countless individuals and families, creating lasting change within the community.
“For her tireless commitment, exceptional kindness and the genuine difference she makes to so many lives, I cannot think of anyone more deserving of being recognised.”
Walk Talk Action’s National Lottery funding comes to an end on December 8. Teri has already secured some Coalfields Regeneration Trust funding and is working on other funding sources to ensure the services can continue.
She said: “I live and breathe Walk Talk Action CIC. It’s my life. It’s really nice that people would take the time to make a Your Heroes Awards nomination. It’s been a few years of working hard and getting things done.
“I’m big on thanking people for helping us, no matter what that help is and how small it may seem. It’s just overwhelming to receive this sort of thank you as it’s supposed to be me doing the thanking.”
Teri added: “Walk Talk Action has helped me so much and has really helped my own mental health. We get told that we’re making a big difference to other people’s lives just because we’ve taken the time to sit down and listen to them.
“I started this because my own life has been so confusing. By working through the good and the bad in all the chapters of my life it’s helped me to focus on the good and the productive rather than dwelling on the bad.”
Callum Hamilton
Callum Hamilton has been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year category of the Your Heroes Awards in recognition of his hard work with YMCA North Staffordshire’s Your Local Pantry project.
Callum is the friendly face that welcomes around 70 people during the two days the pantry is open each week, and he always remembers their names.
He has been nominated by Mark Roberts, community coordinator at YMCA North Staffordshire.
Mark said: “Callum has for a number years been doing the day to day running of Your Local Pantry at the North Staffordshire YMCA in Stoke-on Trent. The customers pay a weekly fee of £5 and this pays for their weekly shop. It is designed to help people within the community tackle the cost of living.
“I have no hesitation in nominating Callum. He does this work with care and attention. He is just so reliable. The customers love him even though he is a bit shy.
“We have a footfall weekly of 70 people in the two days the Pantry is open and Callum knows everyone’s name who comes through the door.
“He is always extremely helpful and when he does the shopping for the Pantry he remembers what items to buy off the top of his head. Our communities need more Callums. He is great.”