Vote Now for South Derbyshire’s Unsung Hero 2025!

We asked you to nominate the everyday champions who make a real difference in our communities - and you delivered!

Now it’s time to celebrate our finalists and vote for your Unsung Hero 2025

Christopher Mason

At 75, Chris Mason is the true heartbeat of his community a running coach, volunteer, and all-round inspiration. Every week, rain or shine, he leads the South Derbyshire Road Runners with energy and encouragement, helping runners of all abilities achieve their goals. His a familiar friendly face at Swadlincote junior parkrun, cheering on children and families with his trademark smile. Known for his kindness, empathy, and unstoppable positivity, Chris also quietly supports friends through personal challenges, all while continuing to chase his own goals, including completing a marathon in an incredible 3 hours and 48 minutes! Chris truly embodies community spirit, generosity, and joy in everything he does.

Denise Vennings

Denise Vennings is a dedicated community volunteer who founded and runs a weekly coffee and social group, now based at Unity Close Community Room. Her sessions bring together over 20 residents many from sheltered accommodation for games, crafts, guest speakers, and music. Denise’s efforts have helped reduce social isolation and strengthen community connections. She is also an active member of the Tenants Voice Group, where she supports and occasionally chairs meetings.

Neil Potter

Neil is a true community hero whose energy and kindness make a real difference across South Derbyshire. As a volunteer ambassador for the SDCVS Food Bank, he’s brought fun and creativity to fundraising raising over £5,000 in just a year as “Bean Man” and “Rooster the Food Bank Booster”! His efforts have even caught the attention of BBC News, helping secure matched funding and generous food donations from Heinz. Beyond the food bank, Neil is a driving force at Mercia Marina, where he’s helped launch community projects like an Electrical Appliance Recycling scheme, a Book Library, and winter fuel support for residents. Neil’s dedication, warmth, and generosity truly embody community spirit at its best.

Now it’s over to you!

Vote for who you think should be crowned South Derbyshire’s Unsung Hero 2025 and switch on this year’s Christmas Lights on Saturday 29 November (4–7pm)!

Cast your vote here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=FczwmeWZYEa0CBkmqeoRqmoneEVXfaZGqkSwMpDTNwhUMkE4NlEyWlBPTDhBRklBTzhLQVBMQ1lDMy4u&route=shorturl

Voting closes Thursday 20 November 2025 at 11:59pm.

14 November 2025