St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards

St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards 2026

The St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards celebrate the people, organisations and businesses whose time, energy and commitment make Ripon a better place. Organised by Ripon Together, the 2026 awards recognised contributions across youth activities, community life, culture, sport, tourism and the environment.

Overall Volunteer of the Year — Geoffrey Johnson

Geoffrey Johnson has taught thousands of Ripon children, coached children’s cricket for more than 35 years and been actively involved in Rotary. He helped restore the Cathedral’s bells and restart bell-ringing after a long interruption following the Second World War. As Tower Captain, he trained many ringers and continues to be involved. He also serves as Ripon’s Bellman and undertakes sergeant-at-mace duties, helping preserve the city’s civic traditions.

Young Person — Zoe Ingham

Zoe was recognised for her contribution to events and activities across Ripon, confidently making speeches and taking the lead while also working behind the scenes. One of the young people achieving the most volunteering hours through the Power of 10 initiative, she has also taken a leading role in Ripon Youth Council.

Young People’s Group — Janet Nicholas, Fiddle Fingers Youth Orchestra

Janet Nicholas was recognised for her many years running Fiddle Fingers Youth Orchestra. She gives up Saturday mornings to help young string players experience playing in an ensemble, provides homemade treats for their breaks and has led their fundraising for several charities. Her dedication offers young musicians valuable opportunities and encouragement at a time when music provision in schools is declining.

Special Award for Individual Supporter of Youth — Helen Cox

Helen has dedicated substantial time to Ripon Runners, serving as lead coordinator for around ten years. The judges particularly recognised her commitment to junior running and her work to make it fun and enjoyable for all young participants.

Special Award for Individual Supporter of Youth — Jasmine Barrett

At just 19, Jasmine has already given eight years of service as a volunteer swimming teacher at Ripon City Swimming Club. Her dedication has had a positive impact on many of the club’s young helpers and members, earning her a special award from the judges.

Business — Stuart and Katie, the Portly Pig

Stuart and Katie were recognised for growing a successful hospitality business while contributing to the wider life of Ripon. Through the Portly Pig, they collaborate with other independent businesses on events, get involved with festivals and local organisations, and support charities.

Community — Mike Chambers

Mike’s award recognises his extensive service to Ripon through a wide range of organisations. A former Citizens Advice Bureau trustee and a councillor, he leads Ripon’s British Legion and Royal Air Force Association and is Chief Executive of Ripon Chapels and Hospitals Trust. He is also a Community House trustee, a prominent member of the Uredale Community Partnership and a volunteer at Lister House.

Community Organisation — Ohana Play Club

Ohana Play Club provides a safe, welcoming space for children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families. Several nominations highlighted a place where children are accepted for who they are and parents feel understood and supported. The club was recognised for creating friendships, belonging and hope.

Culture and Education — Museum Trust volunteers

The Museum Trust’s volunteers were recognised for the dedication and hard work that keep the Workhouse Museum operating. Their contribution spans research, welcoming visitors, cleaning, gardening, repairs and supporting visits by schools and other groups. The judges described the volunteer team as the backbone of the Museum Trust.

Sports and Activity Groups — Ripon Runners

Led by Karen Lennox, Ripon Runners was recognised as a friendly, inclusive club welcoming people across age groups and abilities. Its membership has grown to more than 300, and members contribute to the wider community through support for Ripon Foodbank, litter-picking and fundraising for local causes.

Tourism — Ripon Cathedral

Ripon Cathedral was recognised as the city’s largest visitor attraction and for its wider contribution to community life. The award celebrates the management, staff and volunteers whose work supports Ripon’s appeal to visitors and benefits the city’s community and businesses.

Environment — Trustees and volunteers of Friends of Hell Wath

Friends of Hell Wath has planted 1,000 trees over five years and improved biodiversity through managing invasive plants, sowing wildflowers and installing bat and owl boxes. The group has also provided free Forest Schools for four years, hosted two archaeological digs and improved signage, enhancing Hell Wath as an asset for the whole community.

Supporter of Adults — Ripon Theatre Festival

The first Supporter of Adults award recognised Ripon Theatre Festival’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Working with the Disability Forum, the Walled Garden and others, the festival has helped install a hearing loop at RAOS and arranged signing for an event. Its programme includes activities designed for people living with dementia, with performances both at central venues and in residential care homes throughout the area.

St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards & Criteria

Business – A business which has supported the city or its community during the past year

Community – An individual who has made a difference to local people or the wider local community in the past year

Community Organisation – A not-for-profit organisation that has made a difference to local people in the past year

Culture & Entertainment – The organisation or individual who has made a significant contribution to cultural activities or the provision of entertainment in the Ripon area

Sports and Activity Clubs – An individual who has made a significant contribution to sports or other group activities during the past year

Tourism – A business or other organisation that can demonstrate a significant contribution to improving the Ripon area’s offering as a tourism destination over the past year

Environment – An individual or organisation that has made a significant contribution to protecting or improving the environment during the past year

Individual Young Person – The person (under 19 years old) who has made a significant contribution during the past year

Young People’s Group – The group (under 19 years old) which has made a significant contribution during the past year

Individual Supporter of Adults – the person who has made a major difference by directly supporting adults in the Ripon area

The judging panel will also select an overall Volunteer of the Year