Brian Sutton, who set up the Facebook group ‘Let’s Clean Up Bishop Auckland’, has been recognised by Dehenna Davison MP after being nominated by local residents.
Dehenna Davison, MP for Bishop Auckland, awarded Brian Sutton April’s Unsung Hero of the month following a huge number of nominations from local residents. Within a few weeks of setting up the page, it had already gained over 600 members and now sits comfortably over 1,000. Brian’s page has mobilised members of the group and the general public to not only report issues but to go out and pick up litter in the local area.
Dehenna said:
“I am beyond pleased to be giving the fabulous Brian Sutton this month’s Unsung Hero award for his dedicated and inspiring work to keep our community clean.
“I first heard of Brian’s work after he had contacted me about the page, inviting me to join. Since its creation it has gone from strength to strength, I hope to one day join him and volunteers on a litter pick, once COVID rules allow.”
The Unsung Heroes scheme was launched initially to highlight those going above and beyond in the pandemic, early April to recognise local residents who are going above and beyond for the community during the Coronavirus crisis.
Reacting to the news that he had won the Unsung Hero award, Brian said:
“I am really happy to accept this award not for me but for all the members of our group who are out daily Cleaning up Bishop Auckland and the many individuals and small business owners who have donated equipment to enable the group make a huge impact all over Bishop Auckland.”
On why they nominated Brian, residents said:
“He has taken on a great challenge of making local people and businesses more aware and own up to their responsibilities and do the right thing.”
And, “Brian has set up a group called - let's clean up Bishop Auckland. He is tireless in his efforts to make the area a nicer place to live, and I believe people like him need some recognition.”
Nominations for May’s Unsung Hero awards are now open and can be made via Dehenna Davison’s website (dehennadavison.com).
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For more information please contact: ellie.varley@parliament.uk