A night of inspiration at the fourth Hartlepool Heroes shines a spotlight on ‘incredible people’

The inspiring stories of everyday champions took centre stage as the fourth annual Hartlepool Heroes awards celebrated the incredible individuals and groups who make our town a better place to live, work and thrive. 

Organised by The PFC Trust in proud partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Carers, the 2026 ceremony highlighted the extraordinary dedication of local people. 

From dedicated young carers to tireless charity fundraisers, ten prestigious awards were handed out to honour those who go above and beyond to drive positive change and uplift the community. 

Fiona Connolly, CEO of The PFC Trust, said: "What a fantastic occasion. To hear all the incredible stories in the room from what people do every day always astounds. 

“It is through the work of The PFC Trust each year that we have come to hear more and more stories of inspiration and this evening was no different." 

Due to ongoing works and the temporary closure of the Borough Hall, this year’s event was hosted at Hartlepool College of Further Education. The venue change provided a uniquely close-knit atmosphere for the nominees, sponsors and guests. 

Popular BBC Tees presenter Gary Philipson brought his trademark energy to the stage, guiding the audience through an emotional and uplifting evening. 

Matt Wilton, chief executive of Hartlepool Council, also addressed the guests. He acknowledged just how "amazing" everyone in the room was, paying tribute to the organisers, the shortlisted nominees and everyone who helped make the night a reality. 

Generous local sponsors had the honour of selecting the winners across nine categories, celebrating the diverse landscape of Hartlepool. 

The evening then culminated with 16-year-old Niamh Addison winning the highly coveted People’s Choice Award. Decided entirely by a public vote, the award recognised her extensive volunteer work with the Royal British Legion and her ongoing mental health advocacy. 

Vice chair of The PFC Trust Kelly Daley, who officially welcomed attendees, said: "It is really important to celebrate the people of Hartlepool because there are so many heroes we don’t know about. 

“We had a smaller venue in terms of the room, more intimate and there was a warm feeling running through the place as we all celebrated so many selfless people.” 

Other Heroes included Michael Booth, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his two decades of dedication to raising dementia awareness and the Hartlepool Big Town Tidy Up team, named Green Community Champion for their relentless environmental efforts. 

Heartwarming recognition was also given to the town's dedicated caregivers, with 12-year-old Ella Price taking home Young Carer of the Year for supporting her mother and brother, while Ann Huntingdon was named Carer of the Year for founding the 'Why Not?' social group for those affected by dementia. 

Dr Angela Brown, who spoke on behalf of Hartlepool Carers at the event, said: "This is a celebration of people coming together in a town like ours. 

“It is through organisations like The PFC Trust, Hartlepool Borough Council and Hartlepool Carers that we are able to have an evening like this. This is about celebrating the value of what they do for others, not for what they do for themselves but for others and that is extra special.” 

Guests also enjoyed a vibrant performance by KR Dance, alongside two songs by former The Voice Kids contestant Abigail Moore. 

Masters athlete Keith Hutchinson took the stage to explain his upcoming '60 for 60' challenge later this year, raising money for The PFC Trust to celebrate the charity’s founder Frances Connolly's 60th birthday.