Geoffrey Johnson’s decades of service to Ripon have been recognised with the Overall Volunteer of the Year award at the 2026 St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards.
A teacher to thousands of local children and a children’s cricket coach for more than 35 years, Geoffrey has contributed to many aspects of city life. He helped restore Ripon Cathedral’s bells and revive bell-ringing after a long interruption following the Second World War. As Tower Captain, he trained generations of ringers and remains involved today. His service also includes Rotary, while his roles as the city’s Bellman and sergeant-at-mace help uphold Ripon’s ancient civic traditions.
Organised by Ripon Together and held at Ripon Cathedral, the awards celebrated the volunteers, community groups and businesses whose dedication makes such a difference to the city.
Young Person winner Zoe Ingham was recognised for her leadership and practical support across local events and the Youth Council. Janet Nicholas received the Young People’s Group award for her longstanding work running Fiddle Fingers Youth Orchestra. Special awards for supporting young people went to Helen Cox for junior running and Jasmine Barrett for volunteer swimming teaching.
Mike Chambers received the Community award for his extensive service across local organisations, while Ohana Play Club won Community Organisation for its welcoming support for children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families.
Other winners were Stuart and Katie of the Portly Pig for Business; the Museum Trust volunteers for Culture and Education; Ripon Runners for Sports and Activity Groups; Ripon Cathedral for Tourism; and the trustees and volunteers of Friends of Hell Wath for Environment.
The new Supporter of Adults award went to Ripon Theatre Festival, recognising its work to make performances accessible and bring events to people living with dementia and residents of care homes.
Ripon Together thanks everyone who nominated someone, the judges, presenters and volunteers, and all those whose contributions were celebrated. Together, their stories demonstrate the breadth of commitment, kindness and community spirit across Ripon.