WINNER - Mellor March

Tonight, we’re honoured to recognise a truly remarkable group — the dedicated team behind The Mellor March.
Since its humble beginnings in 1994, inspired by the St Thomas’s Church boundary walk, this event has grown into a cherished community tradition. Thanks to the vision and passion of founders Tim Lowe, Richard Jones, and Paddy Whitham, and the tireless efforts of countless volunteers, an incredible £280,000 has been raised for cancer-related charities.
It was a brilliant event this year — perfect weather makes such a difference. Donations of £3,000 each were made on the day to The Christie, St Ann's Hospice, Once Upon a Smile, and Francis House Hospice.
What makes The Mellor March so special is its spirit — it’s a day that brings people of all ages together, walking side by side in support of a vital cause. Every step taken, every pound raised, has made a real difference to those affected by cancer. To the Mellor March team: thank you for your unwavering commitment, your generosity, and for proving just how powerful community can be. You are an inspiration — and tonight, we celebrate you.

2nd - Daniel Davies

This year, Marple’s own Daniel Davies completed two truly extraordinary challenges—each driven by love, loss, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. In memory of his best friend Chris Barlow, who tragically passed away at just 31, Daniel ran 5 kilometres every single day for a whole year—365 consecutive days—raising over £4,000 for the Macnair Trust, a local charity close to his heart. The specific aim of the Trust is to support good causes in the Marple Area. His final run, welcomed by friends and family at Marple Cricket Club, was a powerful tribute to Chris, a much-loved member of the club and community. As if that wasn’t enough, Daniel then set his sights on the 2025 London Marathon, running in honour of his late father Joseph, who passed away five years ago following a heart attack. Through tireless fundraising efforts, including raffles and community events, Daniel raised an impressive £3,600 for the British Heart Foundation. Whether it’s pounding the streets in memory of a friend or tackling 26.2 miles for his father, Daniel has shown what true endurance and heart look like. His journey has inspired many—and we are proud to honour him tonight for running with purpose, passion, and love.

3rd - Marple Carnival

Since 1962, it has stood as the longest consecutively organised carnival in the UK, raising thousands for local charities and bringing joy to generations. But Marple Carnival is so much more than just a parade — it’s the Memorial Park buzzing with stalls, attractions, the crowning of the Carnival Royals, and a magical sense of community spirit. Behind this success is a dedicated team of volunteers — year after year, they make it all happen and we thank every one of you who’s helped build this legacy over many years. While 2025 sees a pause for the exciting new Community Hub, the Carnival’s spirit marches on. Thanks to the Marple Carnival 50-50 Community Fund, nearly £2,000 has already been donated to groups like New Horizons, Mellor Country House, and Marple Men in Sheds to name but a few. To the Carnival Committee and all its supporters — thank you for your vision, passion, and lasting impact on our community. You are truly deserving of this recognition.

WINNER - The Marple Poppy Appeal

Since 2017, the Marple Poppy Team has raised an incredible £160,000 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. The team — Kevin Murray, Mike Openshaw, Neville Phillips, and Brendan O’Herlihy — have played a vital role in raising awareness of the Appeal. Through creative and moving initiatives like the Ride of Remembrance, the Who Was I campaign, and the introduction of Street Poppies on lampposts — each bearing the name of a fallen soldier — they’ve brought the meaning of remembrance directly into the heart of our community. Kevin and the team know that none of this would be possible without the dedication of the many volunteers who give up their time during Remembrance, and without the generous spirit of the people of Marple. Time and again, you’ve shown unwavering support — even in the most challenging of times. Tonight, we honour the Marple Poppy Team, and we say — on behalf of our community — thank you.

2nd - The Pantry

Tonight, we are proud to recognise The Pantry, a food bank run under the care of All Saints Church. For over ten years, The Pantry has opened its doors every Saturday from CONNECT on Queen Street, offering free food, warmth, and welcome to anyone in need. With the simple but powerful mission that “No one goes hungry,” The Pantry gives out over 50 bags of food each week. But they offer far more than just food — they offer kindness, conversation, and community. Their work is sustained by the generosity of local people — from schools and businesses to individuals like the young boy who, instead of birthday gifts, asked his friends to bring donations for The Pantry. That spirit of giving is what The Pantry embodies. Thank you, and congratulations to The Pantry for this well-deserved nomination

WINNER - Marple Christian Care

It is an honour to stand here tonight and recognise the incredible work of Marple Christian Care. For 48 years, this remarkable organisation has been a quiet lifeline for residents in Marple and the surrounding villages—helping those who, due to illness, disability, or frailty, are unable to access public transport or get to vital medical appointments. Founded in 1977, MCC has remained committed to dignity and compassion, offering a free service funded entirely by donations. None of this would be possible without its dedicated volunteers, including drivers and receptionists, and the steadfast leadership of Kathryn Pinder, who recently took on the role of Chair following the retirement of Gordon Lyon. To everyone involved with Marple Christian Care—thank you for making such a lasting difference in your community. You truly

2nd - Marple Youth Project

Marple Youth Project is an exciting new social enterprise. This has been achieved by the hard work of the dedicated directors Helen Middleton, and Aron Thornley and a team of willing volunteers. Set up to truly change lives, the project offers young people aged 11 to 16 a safe, welcoming space to build skills, explore new experiences, and—most importantly—have fun. Whether it’s canal boat adventures, archery, theatre trips, trips to Liverpool or even climbing, each activity helps build confidence and independence. Through these experiences, they aim to empower young people with real-world skills, build their confidence in travelling on buses and trains, and encourage them to discover and develop new talents. Marple Youth Project isn’t just for young people—it’s shaped by them. Their involvement gives them pride and purpose. From delivering Christmas food parcels to distributing donated toys, this group has made a heartfelt impact on both young lives and the wider community. Let’s hear it for the Marple Youth Project!

3rd - New Horizons - Stockport Canal Boat Trust

It’s a real honour to celebrate New Horizons tonight — a charity that truly embodies the spirit of Marple. Launched in 1981 by His Majesty the King, then Prince of Wales, and brought to life by the tireless efforts of Mayor Gordon Bayley MBE, New Horizons has given over 120,000 people — many with disabilities — the chance to experience the peace and beauty of our waterways. The charity is managed by a Board of Trustees, a Skipper and a willing band of volunteers.  The charity receives no government funding, relying instead on creative fundraising like the Float the Boat scheme and festive appointments with Father Christmas. In 2022, facing urgent repairs, an incredible £60,000 was raised in just four months — a testament to the love and value Marple places on this boat. As His Majesty once said, “A trip in a canal boat is the nearest a disabled person will come to a walk in the countryside.” Tonight, we say thank you to New Horizons for making that journey possible for so many.

Nominee - Dementia Drop-in

The Marple Dementia Drop-in was launched in 2014 as part of a council-led initiative to help make Marple more dementia friendly. Lesley Mason has been instrumental in developing and running this group at Marple Sports Club. She is an unsung hero. The group was set up to provide a network of support and friendship for people living with the condition including their friends and family. They work closely with EDUCATE who use their personal experience to help promote better understanding of dementia in and around Stockport. They meet weekly providing a relaxed, social gathering but do not provide personal care or supervision. They provide a safe and familiar environment to relax, chat and make friendships. They host a range of activities including arts and crafts, exercise classes, bingo, guest speakers and entertainment.

Nominee - Marple Fest

Marple Fest began with a simple but powerful idea — to bring our community together. When Clare Kitchenham saw that not everyone could attend a Jubilee Street party, she created something for everyone. With just a handful of volunteers, Marple Fest was born — and since then, five incredible events have followed, showcasing local talent, boosting local businesses, and now, quite literally — lighting up our town. Thanks to the dedication of the Marple Fest team and the generosity of our community, beautiful festoon lights now shine on Market Street. Over £20,000 was raised, including a touching donation in memory of Tony Tognarelli — a reminder that this isn’t just about events or lights, but about the heart of Marple. Thank you, Marple Fest, for creating something truly special — and for proving what happens when a community comes together

Nominee - Motion Dance Collective

Our next nominee for Community Group of the Year is Motion Dance Collective — a Marple-based organisation bringing the mental and physical health benefits of dance to as many people as possible. Now in its third year, the group runs adult dance classes in Marple, building an incredible community of women aged 18 to 75. Through a shared love of dance, members have formed lasting friendships and improved both their physical and mental wellbeing. Motion Dance Collective also uses some of its classes to fundraise for local charities, donating proceeds to Manchester Women’s Aid, Wood Street Mission, and the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital Charity. Their impact reaches even further, with dance sessions provided in local care homes for adults living with dementia, the Marple Dementia Drop-In, and local schools and day centres for people with learning disabilities. Most recently, they’ve begun delivering classes on psychiatric intensive care units and mental health wards in hospitals, supporting women through recovery with movement, music, and connection. A truly inspiring group — Motion Dance Collective are proudly dancing their way around Marple!

JOINT WINNERS
Marple Hall School Year 10 Girls Football Team

Our next nominee for Sporting Achievement has made history, inspired a community, and captured the spirit of determination and teamwork. Earlier this year, Marple Hall School’s Under 15 girls football team were crowned champions of the English Schools’ FA Cup – the first time a girls’ team from a Stockport school has ever lifted the trophy. In a thrilling final down in Worcester, they overcame King’s Langley High School 2-1, with standout star Penny Hallas scoring both goals and earning Player of the Match. Team captain Mads Cox proudly lifted the trophy – and they didn’t do it alone. The team brought a coachload of fellow students, parents, carers, and families – turning the stands into a sea of support. After going behind early, the team showed real grit and resilience – scoring twice in just three minutes, both goals assisted by Isla Robinson. They held on through a tense second half, with heroic defending from Katie Turner sealing the win. Their road to glory didn’t end there – this team went unbeaten in 18 matches, scored 99 goals, and clinched not one, not two, but three major trophies – including the Stockport League and Greater Manchester Schools FA Cup. Led by PE Head Michael Stretton and supported by staff, parents, club coaches, and sponsors like Bradshaw Trees Law, this remarkable group of young athletes became more than just a football team – they became a source of pride and inspiration for their entire community. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in applauding our nominee for Sporting Achievement – the unstoppable Marple Hall U15 Girls Football Team.

JOINT WINNERS - Marple Athletic JFC

Please join me in celebrating one of our incredible nominees tonight – Marple Athletic Junior Football Club, who have been shortlisted for both Sporting Achievement and Young Team of the Year. Marple Athletic JFC was founded back in 1985, the brainchild of Alan and Jane Rainford. What began as just one team and a passion for grassroots football has grown, over the last 40 years, into a thriving community club. Alan ran the club for many years before handing over the reins – and in that time, the club has had only six chairmen, each helping build on its strong foundations. Today, Marple Athletic is home to 35 teams – made up of 21 boys’ teams, 13 girls’ teams, and even a recreational ladies team. That’s over 500 players in total, with 287 boys and 243 girls proudly wearing the Marple colours. It’s a club that’s grown steadily – and inclusively – over the years. But Marple Athletic isn’t just about football. It’s about values. The club puts strong emphasis on respect, teamwork, honesty, ambition, and – above all – having fun. These values are at the heart of everything they do, and they’re a big part of why the club is so admired across the community. This season has been packed with achievements.

On the boys’ side: 
• Five teams played in the top divisions of the East Manchester League.
• The U7 Reds moved up to Division 1 mid-season.
• The U14s finished 2nd in Division 3.
• The U17s reached the semi-finals of the League Cup and two other quarter-finals.

In the girls’ league:
• The U9s won the New Mills Tournament.
• Both U12 Reds and Blues won their leagues.
• The U13 Reds scored 102 goals in 22 games.
• And the U15s won 10 of their 14 matches – with 7 players also helping Marple Hall School win the National Schools FA Cup!

It’s clear that Marple Athletic JFC is not only helping young players develop their skills – but also creating a place where teamwork, ambition and community spirit are thriving. They’re a club with a proud history and an even brighter future – and tonight, they rightly take their place among the best in our community. Let’s hear it for Marple Athletic Junior Football Club!

WINNER - Marple Swimming Club

It’s an absolute honour to stand here tonight and speak on behalf of Marple Swimming Club – a proud and long-standing part of our community since 1933. What began as a summer pool and winter dance floor has grown into a competitive, friendly, and inclusive club that continues to thrive, even while operating out of Romiley and New Mills pools during the exciting wait for their new home. Their mission is simple yet powerful – to offer equal opportunities for all swimmers, from four years old to adults, from beginners taking their first strokes to those competing at county, regional, national, and even international levels. They have had members shine in triathlons, aquathlons, and aquatic disciplines like water polo, synchro, and open water swimming – many continuing their passion at universities and beyond. But it’s not just about competition. They are a true community. Swimmers grow into water helpers and eventually become teachers. Their families and friends cheer from the stands, volunteer at events, and even bake cakes to support us." They proud themselves on inclusivity, working with swimmers of all abilities to help them realise their full potential – because at Marple Swimming Club, everyone has a lane.

2nd - Marple Athletic JFC

"As well as their earlier nomination, it’s no surprise that Marple Athletic Junior Football Club have been shortlisted for Young Team of the Year as well. Their passion, progress, and positivity shine through every week – and this recognition is something they should be incredibly proud of. Let’s hear it again for Marple Athletic Junior Football Club!

JOINT WINNER - Marjorie Bennett

Tonight, we have the great honour of celebrating a truly remarkable woman whose service to Girlguiding spans an incredible 60 years – Marjorie Bennett. Marjorie’s journey began at just eight years old when she joined the Brownies in Reddish Green. Since then, she has quite literally never stopped guiding. When there was no Rangers unit to move into, she stepped up to help with the Guides, and by the time she was 18, she was officially leading them. Even marriage and motherhood didn’t slow her down.

After moving to Heaviley, and later to Marple, Marjorie continued to run units, travelling by bus with dedication that never faltered. And when life took her to Oxford, she simply carried on – taking on roles with Beavers, Rainbows, and Guides, building friendships and memories wherever she went. When she returned to Marple, it didn’t take long for the guiding community to welcome her back with open arms – and she got straight back to work. From camping and crafts to London trips and long-distance cycling support, Marjorie’s energy and enthusiasm have inspired generations. She’s sewn curtains, knitted blankets, carved Easter chicks, and still turns up, sleeves rolled, ready to help – be it a Rainbow Day, a district trip, or another adventure under canvas. Her talents, warmth, and unwavering dedication were even recognised by King Charles, who invited her to a Buckingham Palace Garden party earlier this year. Marjorie, you are the beating heart of Marple’s guiding story – and we thank you for every year, every memory, and every moment of your extraordinary service.

Please join me in celebrating 60 years of Girlguiding with the incomparable Marjorie Bennett!Tonight, we have the great honour of celebrating a truly remarkable woman whose service to Girlguiding spans an incredible 60 years – Marjorie Bennett. Marjorie’s journey began at just eight years old when she joined the Brownies in Reddish Green. Since then, she has quite literally never stopped guiding. When there was no Rangers unit to move into, she stepped up to help with the Guides, and by the time she was 18, she was officially leading them. Even marriage and motherhood didn’t slow her down.

After moving to Heaviley, and later to Marple, Marjorie continued to run units, travelling by bus with dedication that never faltered. And when life took her to Oxford, she simply carried on – taking on roles with Beavers, Rainbows, and Guides, building friendships and memories wherever she went. When she returned to Marple, it didn’t take long for the guiding community to welcome her back with open arms – and she got straight back to work. From camping and crafts to London trips and long-distance cycling support, Marjorie’s energy and enthusiasm have inspired generations.

She’s sewn curtains, knitted blankets, carved Easter chicks, and still turns up, sleeves rolled, ready to help – be it a Rainbow Day, a district trip, or another adventure under canvas. Her talents, warmth, and unwavering dedication were even recognised by King Charles, who invited her to a Buckingham Palace Garden party earlier this year.

Marjorie, you are the beating heart of Marple’s guiding story – and we thank you for every year, every memory, and every moment of your extraordinary service. Please join me in celebrating 60 years of Girlguiding with the incomparable Marjorie Bennett!

JOINT WINNER - Ben Alexander

It’s a true honour to present this nomination, which recognises the exceptional and selfless contribution of Ben Alexander to the Marple community over the past two decades. Ben’s name is synonymous with dedication, perseverance and vision. Nowhere is that more evident than in Stockport Hydro – or as we proudly call it, Marple’s Hydro.

This year marks its 10th anniversary, a remarkable milestone for Greater Manchester’s first community-owned hydroelectric scheme – a pioneering project made real by Ben’s leadership. Ben was the inspiration and driving force behind the Hydro. From initial concept to overcoming complex technical, legal, and financial hurdles – some of which would have stopped others in their tracks – Ben's vision never wavered. He secured over £500,000 in funding, oversaw construction, and continues to chair the board, still devoting countless hours to its successful operation. His contribution doesn’t end there.

As a long-serving councillor and treasurer of Hawk Green Reading Rooms, a champion of Shakespeare, and a tireless advocate for sustainability, Ben has been at the heart of our community’s cultural, social, and environmental life. His work with schools, community groups, and even international visitors speaks volumes about his passion for education and engagement.

The Environmental Challenge Fund, which he initiated, has grown year on year, helping local projects thrive and inspiring the next generation. Quite simply, without Ben, there would be no Stockport Hydro.

His impact is enduring, his energy boundless, and his humility remarkable. It is with heartfelt thanks that we recognise Ben tonight—for outstanding service to the community, and for showing us all what one person’s commitment can truly achieve.

2nd - Sue Woodgate

It’s an honour to stand here tonight to celebrate someone who truly embodies the spirit of community and dedication — the remarkable Sue Woodgate. Sue moved to Marple in 1999, already with a love for canals and a passion for supporting young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities — passions she has brought together through her extraordinary work with New Horizons, the Stockport Canal Boat Trust. She began volunteering in 2000 and quickly became an integral part of the charity.

Appointed as a trustee in 2006, she soon rose to become Vice Chair and then Chair in 2016 — a role she still holds today. As the longest serving qualified skipper, she not only leads from the front but also steers the charity — quite literally! You’ve probably seen her at local events, always rallying support, making jams, knitting toys, dressing as Chief Elf, and helping raise the £40,000 it takes to keep New Horizons afloat each year. But in 2022, when the boat needed major repairs, Sue didn’t hesitate.

She led a massive fundraising campaign, personally completing two sponsored walks and securing over £60,000 in just four months — on top of her usual efforts! All of this, while also serving as a school governor, trustee of a Multi Academy Trust, and another charity supporting women pursuing careers in medicine.

For most, that would be too much. For Sue, it’s just what she does. Sue, your tireless energy, warmth, and dedication inspire us all. Marple is proud of you — and tonight, we say thank you.

3rd - Caroline Calverley

It is a privilege to recognise Caroline Calverley, a truly outstanding nominee for the Volunteer of the Year Award. Caroline’s dedication to our community is remarkable. She prepares meals for over 20 elderly residents each week at the United Reformed Church lunch club, offers transport to medical appointments through Marple Christian Care, and supports the Methodist Church’s warm space initiative.

She leads a Brownie and Rainbow unit every Thursday, nurturing the development of young people, while also caring for her three grandchildren and her nephew, Jamie McLean, who has Down syndrome.

Caroline ensures Jamie and his friends enjoy regular activities such as Tuesday karaoke, monthly discos, and even trips to Anglesey and Tenerife — making lots of memories. Her tireless efforts positively impact every generation in Marple. Caroline is an inspiration and truly deserving of this recognition.

WINNER - Oliver's Dragon Army

Tonight, we honour a group of extraordinary young people from Marple, Marple Bridge and Mellor — children who have shown a strength, love and courage far beyond their years. In December 2022, the unimaginable happened.

Ten-year-old Oliver Buchanan was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Faced with fear and heartbreak, his twin brother George responded with something remarkable: love in action. He began raising money for Young Lives vs Cancer, the charity supporting his family — and from that act of love, Oliver’s Dragon Army was born.

Together, George and twelve of Oliver’s friends turned their heartbreak into hope — with dog rollovers, sponsored swims, mountain climbs and even crisp-fuelled expeditions. They shaved their heads in solidarity, they ran, they rolled, they swam. And always, they did it for Oliver. Their efforts captured hearts across the country.

But what stands out most isn’t just the incredible £80,000 they raised, or the national recognition they received — it’s the unshakable friendship, empathy and determination they’ve shown in the hardest of times.

Oliver passed away in December 2023. Yet his light continues to shine through the work of these young people, and through Oliver’s Dragons — a new charity created by local families, to support other children in our community, in his memory.

To George, and to every member of Oliver’s Dragon Army — you’ve taught us what love really looks like.

You’ve honoured your friend with bravery and kindness that will leave a legacy far beyond tonight.
From all of us here in Marple — thank you. We are so, so proud of you.

WINNER - Isabelle Langner

It’s not every day you meet someone like Isabelle. At just 13 years old, this Marple Hall student has shown more care, commitment, and courage than many adults twice her age. What started as a comment on a Sunday Walk, that the village looked messy, she decided to take action against the litter she saw in her village — not by complaining, but by doing something about it.

Isabelle didn’t wait for someone else to fix it. She picked up gloves and bin bags and started cleaning the streets herself. Over the years, she’s collected litter from Marple Bridge to Brabyns Park — inspiring a ripple effect across the whole community.

Thanks to her efforts, local groups have been formed, streets are cleaner, and people are prouder of where they live. She’s even become a familiar and much-loved face in the village — with Facebook posts about her receiving hundreds of likes and comments of support. Isabelle is proof that one person — no matter how young — can make a difference.

WINNER - Kevin Murray

Tonight is one of those rare and special moments where we get to shine a light on someone who has spent a lifetime quietly lighting up the lives of others. Someone who never asked for applause, never needed the spotlight — but whose impact is written into the very heart of our community.

Tonight, we honour a man we all know, and deeply admire — Kevin Murray. Or, as he's known to many of his friends and family — Mr. Marple.

It all began in roughly 1966 — he was just 17 — when he founded Rosehill Football Club, not by an overriding desire to set a team up but more by a throwaway comment about potentially setting a team up and the next thing people were knocking on his door asking for a trial so he was duty bound!

He helped lead that team as chairman, secretary, kit man, captain and everything else and he also built it into something extraordinary. A team of mates that didn’t just win leagues and cups — though they did plenty of that — but a team that gave back. A team that played charity matches at Brabyns Park against TV celebrity sides, raising money and raising spirits.

He apparently scored the greatest goal ever seen on Brabyns where he ran the length of the pitch before lobbing the goalkeeper but there is little to no video evidence of this...

Kevin believed in football as a way to bring people together. And he believed that players deserved better than… well… washing in the pond at the entrance to Brabyns!

His passion drove him to fight for change. Literally. He was interviewed on telly in 1971, just hours before his wedding day, campaigning for proper facilities — and because of that fight, we have the Pavilion and changing rooms at Brabyns Park today.

But Kevin’s legacy didn’t stop on the pitch.

Many of us know him from his successful business, Inkbox of Marple — but it was during this time that his love for helping our town truly bloomed. Whether it was setting up stalls with the Marple Business Forum, helping the carnival — there are stories of him in a dress on a float with Rosehill FC! — or simply lending a hand wherever it was needed, Kevin was there.

In 2017, when Ron Townley retired from leading the Marple Poppy Appeal, Kevin stepped in — not because he wanted recognition, but because it needed doing. And Kevin is only ever happy when he’s doing something — especially something that helps others.

Under his guidance, and with the support of his team, the Poppy Appeal has continued to raise over £20,000 each year. He brought new life to it with events like the Ride of Remembrance, art exhibitions, the “Who Am I?” campaign, personalised street poppies, and historical walks — all with one goal: to keep the memory of Marple’s fallen alive.

Kevin does this not for medals or praise, but because he cares. He believes in community. He believes in remembrance. And he believes in action.

Through the Carnival’s 50-50 Club, nearly £2,000 has been raised to support local groups such as New Horizons and Marple Men in Sheds. He also contributes quietly to community art projects, volunteers behind the bar at The Carver Theatre, and helps ensure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

Kevin’s son said: “If you know my dad, you’ll know he absolutely hates being the centre of attention. He’s never done any of this for recognition—but if anyone deserves it, it’s him.

We are so incredibly proud of him—not just as our dad and grandad—but as someone who gives so much to his community. It means the world to us that Marple sees that too, and is just as proud of him as we are.” He doesn’t like fuss. He doesn’t ask for thanks. But tonight, Kevin, we insist on it.

On behalf of everyone you’ve inspired, supported, and uplifted — thank you. Marple is Marple because of people like you. You are the heart of this community. And you are truly deserving of this Outstanding Achievement award. You may be a quiet man, but your legacy speaks volumes. Thank you, Kevin.