‘Everyday History Heroes’ Winners Revealed!

"While the Pankhurst family are rightly celebrated, we're passionate about uncovering the stories of the many ordinary women and allies whose contributions to the suffrage movement have too often been overlooked. We're also keen on discovering the unexpected stories of Mancunians whose lives ran in parallel to the city's famous family, the sort of people who don't normally make the history books. Being named the North West winner gives us a wonderful opportunity to share these remarkable histories with even more people and celebrate the many unsung individuals who helped shape the fight for equality." (Hannah Priest, Pankhurst Museum)

"Every gravestone in Jesmond Old Cemetery represents a life, a family and a story that deserves to be remembered. We're thrilled to be named the North East winner of Everyday History Heroes. This recognition celebrates the dedication of our volunteers and supporters who work tirelessly to research, preserve and share the stories of the people who shaped Newcastle. We hope it inspires even more people to discover the rich history that can be found within the cemetery and connect with the generations who came before them." (Ray Hayes, Friends of Jesmond Old Cemetery)

"Thanks to the work of the volunteer Heritage Group, Otley Courthouse is a place full of stories of people from a wide area of West and North Yorkshire who have been involved with this historic building in a variety of ways. Being named the Yorkshire winner is a fantastic opportunity to share these fascinating stories more widely, bringing the building to life and celebrating the history of this lively market town. We're incredibly grateful to everyone who voted for us and helped recognise the importance of preserving and sharing these everyday histories." (Hazel Costello, Otley Courthouse)

"Through our projects, collections, trails and community events, we're uncovering and sharing stories of the ordinary people who shaped both Moor Pool and Birmingham's City of a Thousand Trades, while celebrating the community spirit that continues today. Being named the West Midlands winner is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the everyday people and histories that are such an important part of Birmingham's heritage. We're delighted that these stories have resonated with voters and hope this recognition inspires even more people to discover and value the remarkable histories on their doorstep." (Barbara Nomikos, Moor Pool Heritage Trust)

"This recognition celebrates the dedication of our volunteers, whose research, conservation and community work help preserve the heritage of this remarkable cemetery. We are passionate about bringing its history to life, reconnecting families with their past and ensuring that the lives of ordinary people are not forgotten. Being named the East Midlands winner is a wonderful achievement, and we hope it encourages even more people to discover the stories hidden within Nottingham Road Cemetery's historic landscape." (Scott Jarvis, Chair, Friends of Nottingham Road Cemetery)

"We're delighted that our work to preserve Bath's historic Jewish Burial Ground and showcase its hidden histories has been recognised in this way. Through the dedication of our volunteers, we're uncovering the experiences of families, workers and migrants whose lives form an important part of Bath's everyday history. Being named the South West winner is a wonderful opportunity to share these stories with even more people and ensure this important heritage continues to be preserved and celebrated for future generations." (Ann Cullis)

"The Royal Victoria Chapel is a remarkable part of Hampshire's heritage, symbolising nearly two centuries of groundbreaking military healthcare. As the last surviving part of the former hospital, it connects visitors to stories of innovation, resilience and healing. Being named the London & South East winner is a wonderful opportunity to honour the often-overlooked patients, staff and support workers whose experiences shaped this unique place, whilst helping preserve their legacy for future generations." (Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council's Cabinet Lead for Universal Services)