Pictures John Hopkins
THE man who had the vision to see the former Warrington Youth Club transformed into the Onside Youth Zone, helping to change the lives of thousands of young people and create World Champions, has received a Lifetime Achievement Award, in recognition of 45 years voluntary service.
David Briggs MBE, CVO, KStJ, has dedicated over four decades to community and charitable work in Cheshire. He continues to serve as the President of Warrington Youth Zone (formerly Warrington Youth Club), a role he has held in various capacities since 1980.
The former Lord Lieutenant for Cheshire received a standing ovation after being presented with a special Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Youth Zone Awards evening in front of a packed room of around 300 people.
Briggs oversaw the former Warrington Boys Club become the Warrington Youth Club as it moved into the Warrington Peace Centre, before becoming part of Onside with the new purpose-built Youth Zone.
Chair of the Trustees Mandy Kiddle, said he had ensured a “vision became a reality.”
Asking people in the audience to tell 10 people, to tell 10 people about the amazing work of the Youth Zone Briggs added: “This place is really changing the lives of young people.
“Two of those young people have gone on to become World Champions, Luke Littler with darts and young actor Owen Cooper with a Golden Globe.
“Warrington really is leading the way with young talent. Our ambition is to help more young people become winners.
“Here we give them a choice from 25 activities every single day, giving them an opportunity to succeed.”
Award winners on the night were Sports Personality of the Year Joe Davies for his weightlifting activities. which has seen him already competing against adults. Runners-up were Bertie Fisher and Macey Partington.
Creative Arts Personality of the Year went to Harry Jones for his drumming skills. Runners-up were Ellis Cornelia and Byron Clifton.
The Candice Roberts Award in memory of the former Youth Club volunteer, went to Nial Williamson for his commitment and enthusiasm to the “Buddy Up” film nights he has been involved with as a volunteer since 2017. Runners-up were Elaine Strong and Guy Roberts.
Young dancers entertain the audience
Young Volunteer of the Year went to Olivia Jones for her commitment as a Young Leader, particularly in the Art Room. Runners-up were Indie Lomax and Lennie White.
The Nick “Hoppy” Hopkinson Award, in memory of the former Chair and fundraiser, went to Jack Ford, who ran his own Care Leavers Market at Christmas. Runners-up were Ewan Tolley and Ryan Parker.
The Rea Muir Award in memory of the former Youth Club member for Inspirational Young Person of the Year went to George Newcombe, who despite the challenges of Autism, maintains an inspiring level of positivity. Runners-up were Kian Corley and Oskar Packer.
Young Warringtonian of the Year went to Toby Dennison for his natural gift of bringing people together. Runners-up were Jasmine Bell and Olivia Micallef.
Finally the Warrington Youth Zone Home Grown Award went to Associate Board member Natasha Williams.
Natasha with Award sponsor Laurence Barrow from Barrow Electrical
Mayor of Warrington Cllr, Mo Hussain, helped present the awards
