Shrewsbury’s unsung heroes celebrated at Mayor's Awards
Shrewsbury’s unsung heroes were once again celebrated as the town came together for the sixteenth annual Mayor’s Awards yesterday evening.
Shrewsbury’s unsung heroes were once again celebrated as the town came together for the sixteenth annual Mayor’s Awards, shining a light on the individuals, groups and businesses that make the county town such a vibrant and caring community.
Hosted yesterday evening at Shrewsbury Town Football Club, the awards recognised outstanding contributions across a wide range of categories, from business and tourism to community spirit, youth leadership and environmental action.
Often described as Shrewsbury’s very own version of the Oscars, the Mayor’s Awards remain a highlight of the civic calendar, offering a moment to honour the everyday people doing extraordinary things for their town.
Presiding over the evening, The Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Alex Wagner, praised the remarkable efforts of this year’s winners:
“The Mayor’s Awards are a powerful reminder of the kindness, resilience and generosity that run through our community. It is truly inspiring to see just how many people dedicate their time and energy to making Shrewsbury a better place for others.”
“Every recipient represents the very best of our town. Whether through small acts of kindness or lifelong commitments, their contributions help shape the spirit of Shrewsbury and make us all incredibly proud.”
Celebrating Outstanding Individuals and Stories
Youth Award – Finley-Jay Stubbs
One of the evening’s most heartwarming moments came with the recognition of 10-year-old Finley-Jay Stubbs, whose selfless dedication has already made a lasting impact on local emergency services.
Since the age of five, Finley-Jay has been creating and delivering gift bags to local ambulance crews at Christmas and Easter, personally handing out more than 800 hampers filled with treats. Whether at the hospital or out on a call, his thoughtful gestures have brought smiles to countless frontline workers.
Well known and warmly welcomed by ambulance crews across the region – and even beyond into Wales – Finley-Jay’s kindness, enthusiasm and genuine desire to brighten someone’s day captured the hearts of everyone in attendance.
Built Heritage Award – Perches House
A deeply moving tribute was paid through the Built Heritage Award, presented posthumously in honour of Rose Roberts for her extraordinary dedication to preserving Perches House.
Over four decades, Rose devoted her life to protecting this Grade II* listed, four-storey 16th-century town house in the heart of Shrewsbury. Rich in history, the building is widely recognised as the setting for Scrooge’s office in the 1984 film A Christmas Carol and has also served as a home for Shrewsbury Arts & Crafts.
Following the tragic fire that claimed Rose’s life, the award also recognised the determination of her daughter, Jessica Richards, whose commitment to restoring the building ensures her mother’s legacy will endure. In the face of loss, the story of Perches House stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, with hopes of renewal rising from the ashes.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Christopher Maddocks
The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Christopher Maddocks, marking the end of an era for one of Shrewsbury Indoor Market’s most beloved traders.
After more than 70 years of family tradition, Chris recently stepped into semi-retirement, handing over the long-standing greengrocer business to a new owner while continuing to oversee the market garden side of the operation.
Founded in the 1950s by his parents, the business has long been rooted in a commitment to quality, locally sourced produce and sustainable farming practices. Chris has carried that ethos forward for decades, becoming a central figure in the market’s community.
Known for his warmth, generosity and willingness to help others, Chris has left an indelible mark not only on the market but on the people within it. His dedication, character and stewardship of a cherished family legacy made him a truly fitting recipient of this year’s honour.
Full List of 2026 Mayor’s Award Winners
Built Heritage Award – Perches House
Business Award – House Coffee
Climate Emergency Award – Shropshire Beekeepers Association
Community Award – Shrewsbury Community First Responders
Courtesy Award – Earl Drysdale
Environment Award – Preston Montford Field Studies Council
Tourism Award – Shrewsbury Ambassadors
Youth Award – Finley-Jay Stubbs
Market Trader of the Year
Following hundreds of public votes cast online for the first time, the winners of the Shrewsbury Market Trader of the Year were: JP Fruits – Winner, Pete’s Sandwich Bar – Second Place and Corbetts Butchers – Third Place.
The Mayor’s Special Awards
The Mayor’s Special Awards recognised individuals and organisations who have shown exceptional dedication to supporting The Mayor and the wider community throughout the year. This year’s recipients included:
Shrewsbury Food Hub, Lizzistration, Aidan Hart, Susan Edwards, Mark Stewart, Shrewsbury Street Pastors, Shrewsbury Male Voice Choir, The Ploughboy, Shropshire European Organisation CIC, Alex Whiteley (Shrewsbury Biscuit Podcast), Steve Jones, Shropshire Bowling and Trophy Centre, and West Mercia Search and Rescue.
Each has played a unique role in enhancing the vibrancy and wellbeing of Shrewsbury, from community support and public service to arts, culture and local enterprise.
As the evening concluded, the message was clear: Shrewsbury thrives because of the care, creativity and commitment of its people. The Mayor’s Awards once again highlighted the extraordinary contributions made every day across the town — often quietly, but always with lasting impact.
