Churchill Living has recognised the inspiring contribution of over 60s in the Yorkshire as part of its Local Hero Awards 2026, with Wigginton-based volunteer Richard Denton named the region’s Local Hero.
Richard, 75, received the award at a ceremony held at Wiggington Community Centre, next door to Churchill’s upcoming Tannery Lodge which launches in January. The recognition comes in honour of his tireless support to the local community, making it a better place for people of all ages to live and work.
Since retiring, Richard has become a driving force in Wigginton. As an active member of the Parish Council, he chairs the committee responsible for local open spaces and has helped raise more than £100,000 in recent years towards improvements for the community.
Richard’s contribution goes well beyond fundraising. He carries out daily checks on the village’s playing fields, children’s play area and dog walking park, helping to keep these spaces safe, welcoming and well maintained. He also helps keep Wigginton looking its best by planting the village flower tubs and assisting with the upkeep of the local pond.
A keen believer in bringing people together, Richard is a founding member of WiggyFest, Wigginton’s annual music festival, and helps organise the event, which gives residents the chance to enjoy music and celebrate their community.
Richard also gives his time every Monday to a lunch club in nearby Haxby, where he has volunteered since it began several years ago. The club supports older people and those who may otherwise feel isolated, offering not only a meal but also an opportunity to socialise, make connections and enjoy some company.
Whether he is helping to improve local facilities, organising community events or supporting older people, Richard consistently puts his community first. His dedication has helped raise vital funds, improve shared spaces and create opportunities for people to come together.
As the Local Hero for Yorkshire, Richard has received £1,000 for the Churchfield Open Space Committee from the Churchill Foundation – the charity arm of Churchill Living – to support them in continuing their important work in the local area.
Richard said: “I’m delighted to receive this award and to see the work happening across Wigginton recognised. I’ve always believed that being part of a community means getting involved and doing what you can to make a difference. Whether that’s helping to look after our open spaces, bringing people together through WiggyFest or giving time to the lunch club in Haxby, it’s about making our local area a better place for everyone. I’m very grateful to everyone who nominated me, and to all the volunteers who give their time to support our community.”
Churchill’s Local Hero Awards 2026 follows the success of last year’s inaugural awards, which saw winners crowned across six counties. This year, the initiative has grown to honour 10 individuals doing brilliant things in their local communities.
The awards highlight the valuable contribution older people continue to make through volunteering, fundraising, mentoring and supporting those around them. According to the State of UK Volunteer Management Report 2026, 50% of organisations say their volunteer bases are mostly made up of people aged 61 to 79.
Spencer J McCarthy, Chairman and CEO of Churchill Living, said: “Following the success of last year’s Local Hero Awards, we were excited to re-launch the initiative this year and recognise another cohort of incredibly worthwhile nominees. The Local Hero Awards highlight the incredible contribution older people are making in communities across the country.
“Richard is a wonderful example of the difference one person can make to the place they call home, and his contribution reaches across generations. The Local Hero Awards celebrate people like Richard, whose commitment, generosity and community spirit make such a positive difference to those around them. We are delighted to recognise his efforts and thank him for everything he does.”
