Spirit Of Leeds Awards 2006
On 3 May 2006, over 300 people from the public, private and voluntary sectors in Leeds attended a special lunch at the Queens Hotel at which Leeds Civic Trust presented its "Spirit of Leeds" Award 2006 in the presence of the Lord Mayor of Leeds and the Lady Mayoress, with Sir Simon Jenkins, Journalist and Broadcaster, as the Guest Speaker.
The "Spirit of Leeds" was first awarded in 2000, and is a biennial event. It is designed to honour the person or organisation which has made the greatest contribution to the life of Leeds.
This year the award was won by:
Simon Lindley, who in his capacity as Organist and Master of Music at Leeds Parish Church for over 30 years, and as Leeds City Organist and Music Officer for Leeds City Council, has made an incalculable contribution to the city and its people.
Sir Simon Jenkins with Finalists for the 2006 'Spirit of Leeds' Award
Recognised nationally and internationally as a musician, he has nevertheless dedicated his primary effort single-mindedly to local musical activities - be it through leadership, through fund-raising, through practical contribution or through creative thinking.
Runners up were:
Jonathan Maud
As the Managing Director of the Leeds-based developer Rushbond PLC, the work of Jonathan Maud is hard to match in its impact on the architecture, heritage and amenity of Leeds. He has used his skills and expertise to transform disused and rundown areas of the city and breathe life into some of Leeds' forgotten treasures. Whether it be the brownfield regeneration of Brewery Wharf or the bringing back to life of historic buildings such as Civic Court on Calverley Street (the former School Board Offices) or Beechwood Hall in Roundhay he has had a very positive effect on the city.
His commitment to the public realm has seen the installation of splendid pieces of public art at Brewery Wharf and in front of the BBC Building at Quarry Hill. While his innovative thinking and enterprise as a developer has been the key to providing Leeds College of Music with 'The Venue' its new concert hall above the BBC Building.
Sue Reddington
As its Director, Sue Reddington has played a major role in establishing Meanwood Valley Urban Farm as a unique amenity project in the heart of the city. She has immense talent in raising funds to expand and maintain the farm. She has devoted all her energies and skills towards this amenity for almost 20 years. The farm has provides valuable opportunities for the disadvantaged in the city.
Sue's skills as a former City Education Welfare Officer have enabled her to turn the farm into an asset to welcome such people. Each year 10,000 school children are involved in its education programme, and its provides education and training opportunities for young people experiencing difficulties in mainstream education and work experience for adult with disabilities. Today the farm attracts 45,000 visitors a year.