Chesterfield litter picking heroes crowned with BBC award – alongside two inspirational Derbyshire residents

Chesterfield Litter Pickers lifted the Environmental category trophy at the BBC Radio Sheffield Make a Difference Awards 2026 hosted at Barnsley Civic Theatre on Friday night (September 4).

Set up during Covid pandemic, the awards are designed to celebrate everyday heroes who make a real difference in their communities – with winners announced in a number of categories including Environmental, Community Group, Fundraiser, Young Hero, Great Neighbour and Active Award.

Lee Brassington who launched volunteer-run Chesterfield Litter Pickers, said: “We are absolutely honoured.

"We work very hard to make a difference through everything we do at Chesterfield Litter Pickers, so it is incredibly rewarding to receive some recognition for the work of our volunteers.

"But this award isn’t just for us — it’s for everyone across the Chesterfield area who takes the time to pick up someone else’s rubbish.

"Whether it’s picking up a single crisp packet from the park, clearing a grot spot, collecting one carrier bag or filling 10 bin bags, every litter bit counts.

"We genuinely appreciate each and every one of you who gives up their time to help keep our community cleaner.”

Chesterfield Litter Pickers had fierce competition with over 500 entries across all categories later narrowed down to 32 finalists before eight winners were revealed.

Commenting on the awards night, Lee said: “The awards night itself was a fantastic event.

"The room was filled with more than 200 people.

"To be announced as the winner is something we are extremely proud of and incredibly grateful for.”

Lee also had a special message for Ward Recycling – an independent metal and waste recycling business working across the Midlands and Chesterfield Litter Pickers’ sponsor.

He added: “We also have to give a special mention to our amazing sponsors, Ward Recycling, who recycle everything we bring to them at no charge.

“Last year alone, we took just over 45,000kg of waste to Ward, where it was either recycled or converted into biofuel — meaning 100% of it avoided landfill.

“This award belongs to everyone who plays their part.”

Another two categories were won by inspirational North Derbyshire residents.

Grace Wood, from Eckington, picked up Volunteer Award, designed to celebrate an individual ‘who makes a notable difference to their community by giving their time voluntarily to help others’.

Another Eckington resident, Jane Marsh, 70, was honoured with Great Neighbour Award – designed to celebrate an individual who helps to make their neighbourhood a better place to live or work.

Jane is involved in her local neighbourhood and runs a club designed for adults with special needs, the annual Christmas dinner for isolated and lonely and organised Eckington Santa Truck, which has raised over £4,000 for Ashgate Hospice.