Community Awards

Community Awards 2022

Six awards were presented to individuals and groups who go the extra mile to support others and help make Sutton Coldfield a better place to live, work and visit.

In the last year our community champions rose to the challenge more than ever in response to the pandemic and were a lifeline for so many people who needed extra help. The awards were not held in 2020 or 2021, making this year even more special for the volunteers and the countless people that have helped in the last two years.

The six winners were chosen by the Mayor and Rev’d John Routh of Holy Trinity Parish Church following an initial call for nominations. Christine Morphet was awarded for her dedication to support young people. Since 2012, Christine has been delivering weekly mentoring sessions and assisting in street youth work. After receiving her award Christine said “I was shocked to be nominated never mind winning. I am incredibly proud of all the work taking place at The Gap*.”

Sutton Coldfield Litter Action Group (SCLAG) was awarded for their efforts in keeping Sutton Coldfield free from litter. Formed only 14 months ago the group now have over 800 volunteers who clean up over 500 streets. Andy Biddle founder of SCLAG said “Everyone at SCLAG is passionate about our area, we keep it tidy for the environment and wildlife and we are all thrilled to be recognised this evening.”

Pat Brown, a volunteer of 15 years was awarded for her commitment as secretary to a local neighborhood forum. Described as an admirable lady by her peers Pat said “I never expected to win a Local Hero Award, this has been a lovely surprise after a difficult two years for us all.”

Formed in May 2020 in response to the pandemic, Hope Food North Birmingham were recognised for supporting some of our most vulnerable residents. 73 volunteers who dedicate over 200 hours every week, serving up to 30 meals per day were thrilled with their award. Teresa Clements a Trustee said “We are over the moon to receive this award. Hope Food is more than providing a hot meal, we provide financial and emotional support and our doors are open to everyone. As long as people need us we will continue to support them.”

Ruth Tough McKeown, site secretary for Boulevard Allotments for 10 years was awarded as a Local Hero for her fundraising efforts to make the allotment site a wonderful place to be. After receiving her award Ruth said “I am in shock –  thank you to the Mayor and Rev’d Routh for selecting me to be a 2022 Local Hero, this has been a wonderful evening.”

The final award went to Friend’s of Stephen’s Pond. The Friend’s of group formed in 2021 with the aim to improve the woodland and green space around Stephen’s Pond. Founder Susan Rooke was delighted with the award saying “We are creating a beautiful space for future generations, our aim is to put Stephen’s Pond on the map – this is only the start of what we can achieve.”

Volunteers of the Sutton Coldfield Vaccination Centre were highly commended by the Mayor receiving a Special Recognition Award for their efficiency, commitment, positive attitude and friendless in all the work that they have done to support the roll out of the vaccination programme since February 2021. Graham Brooks, Shift Leader said “The work at the vaccination centre is a real team effort. To receive special recognition from the Mayor was totally unexpected but means a lot to us all.”

This year’s reception was not only to recognise this year’s Local Heroes, but a chance to bring all our community groups and volunteers together to reconnect and make up for lost time during the past two years. 100 representatives from many groups were in attendance including Friends of groups, environmental, health and faith.