The Unsung Heroes annual campaign celebrates people across the district who give their time to help others and who get involved when something needs doing in their community.
The Foundation is once again asking the public to have their say and let them know which of the our nine finalists you think should receive this year’s People’s Choice Award - an additional accolade for the finalist whose story particularly strikes a chord with local people.
The Foundation’s Executive Director, Lisa Milburn, said: “One of the loveliest things about Unsung Heroes is that nominations come from people who see firsthand the good work all those nominated do across the district.
"Behind every nomination was somebody effectively saying, ‘this person deserves to be noticed’.
"Choosing nine finalists from so many deserving entries was incredibly difficult.”
Public voting will remain open throughout September, with people invited to read about each finalist and cast their vote through the Community Foundation Wakefield District’s website here
Voting closes on Wednesday, September 30 , with the result remaining a secret until the Unsung Heroes Awards, which will be held at the Theatre Royal Wakefield on Thursday, October 15 .
The 2026 Unsung Heroes finalists are:
1. Castleford Community Food Pantry Team
Castleford Community Food Pantry collects surplus food and distributes it to local people in need. In that relatively short time, the pantry has grown to support more than 500 families. Behind the scenes is a committed group of volunteers who have spent the last two years giving their time to help run the pantry. Photo: s
2. Catherine Brocklesby – Open Country
Catherine volunteers for a number of local organisations, including Open Country and Wakefield Sight Aid. For many years, she has helped people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside and events they may not otherwise have been able to attend. As an experienced telephone befriender, Catherine also provides a listening ear to isolated members of our community once a week. Photo: s
3. Chris Lord – WakeyTech4All
Chris is the founder of WakeyTech4All, which helps children and adults who might otherwise struggle to access technology. He refurbishes devices that would otherwise go to landfill and donates them to children, families, adults, and charities in need. He also gives much-needed technical advice and explanation in simple terms. Chris' continued commitment and that of his team help local people access opportunities that come from being digitally connected. Photo: s
4. Claire Crossdale – Remember Barnbow
Claire has dedicated a considerable amount of her spare time researching the Barnbow Lasses, some of whom came from communities across the Five Towns. Her work has uncovered and preserved the stories of women whose contributions to the war effort, including those who lost their lives in the 1916 explosion, didn’t receive the recognition they deserved at the time. Through her painstaking research, Claire has helped ensure an important part of our local history isn’t forgotten. Photo: s