Being a champion of community could be just the ticket for a signed Boro shirt
TWO SEASON TICKETS ALSO PART OF PRIZE
FOR the second year running, a top community champion will win two Boro season tickets and a signed shirt.
Cllr David Taylor is once again spearheading the campaign after last year’s winner, 12-year-old Matthew McRoy spoke about motivating the youth of TS6 to contribute positively to their local area.
Cllr Taylor has relaunched the competition to encourage young people to take pride in their community through acts of service and care. The idea is to challenge local young people to engage in anything from gardening and litter picking to helping elderly neighbours with their shopping to make TS6 a better place to live and to instil a sense of responsibility and pride.
Last year’s winner, Matthew, said: “I really enjoy contributing to the Whalehill Community Centre because I feel pride in helping my community. “Being able to go to see the Boro with my dad has been brilliant and I’ve learnt that helping others can bring good things back to you.
“I would encourage others to get involved in their community, doing what they can even – if it’s something small it can make a big difference to others.”
Cllr Taylor, Conservative councillor for Eston, said: “After witnessing the incredible impact our competition had last year, I knew we had to bring it back. It’s about more than just the prizes, it’s about building a community our kids can be proud of. I’m excited to see the creativity and dedication our young people will bring to the table this year. Matthew and his dad go to the Boro matches together and they are both really enjoying the games.
“Matthew sees friends from school at the matches and has also made new friends at the stadium.
“They are both truly loving the ups and downs of life as a Boro fan.
“We would like to thank Olwyn Peters for recognising Matthew’s contribution to the Whalehill community centre and nominating him for this award.”
Matthew’s mum, Danielle, said: “Matthew is a great help to me when collecting the food donations for the community centre, most of all when it comes to carrying the heavy crates and organising the donations.
“It has been nice seeing Matthew develop into a committed Boro fan and enjoy the atmosphere of the matches with his dad.”
Once again, the top prize of two Boro season tickets, and a signed Boro shirt, comes courtesy of Robbie Walton, owner of R W Design & Sales of Eston. Robbie said: “I’ve been in business locally for over 20 years and it’s always great to give something back to the community.
“When I heard Cllr Dave Taylor was looking to do this, I jumped at the chance and said why don’t we throw a free Boro shirt into the mix.
“Being a Boro fan and father myself, I realise the connection you can make as a family and lifelong Boro fan – those memories last a lifetime. What Matthew has done in the community is great and it’s fantastic that he has continued to contribute.”
The campaign has also drawn praise from both Jacob Young MP and Sir Simon Clarke MP. Jacob Young, Conservative MP for Redcar, said: “Cllr Taylor’s initiative is a shining example of local leadership making a real difference. It’s fantastic to see such proactive efforts to engage our young people in positive activities that benefit the communities they live in.”
Simon Clarke, Conservative MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, said: “David’s commitment to fostering community spirit among our young people is truly commendable and it’s great to see Matthew’s efforts recognised in such a lovely way. Initiatives like this not only improve our local area but empower the next generation to take ownership and pride in where they live. I fully support this wonderful campaign and look forward to its success.”
The competition is open to all young people, aged 11-15, in the TS6 area.
Details on how to participate available on Cllr Taylor’s social media pages.