Doncaster Discover the Spirit Awards

John Jackson receives his award from Mayor Martin Winter

During the devastating Doncaster Floods earlier this year John Jackson demonstrated a truly unique community spirit through his determined efforts to safeguard people and property in Toll Bar.

Despite dealing with the personal impact of the flooding, he never gave up with his very hands on labours and worked tirelessly to help others in any way possible, day after day.

A true inspiration to everyone John became a focal point for the community, stirring others to action and making a very real difference to countless residents during this traumatic time.

Mark Huby
On top of being Director of his own busy financial advice company, running his late aunt’s dance school and being a devoted father of two, Mark is also a volunteer police officer – clocking up an average of 69 hours each month.

In his role as Section Officer, Mark recruits Special Constables within Doncaster and provides guidance and training to new volunteer police officers joining the force.

Over the last 12 months Mark has been heavily involved in co-ordinating numerous anti-shoplifting operations within the Town Centre and he provided hands on support to residents in Toll Bar and Arksey during the floods – ensuring the safety of many elderly residents as well as providing ongoing support in the recovery centres.

Leesa Peel
Leesa donated one of her kidneys to her brother, Mel, so that he would not have to continue daily dialysis treatment.

She researched the procedure and consulted with Doctors regarding her eligibility before telling her brother what she planned to do.

Following the operation Mel’s quality of life improved dramatically, enabling him to enjoy an active lifestyle once more. Leesa’s gift of life provides a fine example of how a selfless act can make the world of difference to another.

Pratibha Singh
Having previously spent two months every year in India helping her sister-in-law care for her two severely disabled adult nieces Tejinder and Ashwant, Pratibha Singh took on the full time care of the sisters in 1993 following the tragic death of their mother.

Juggling the care of her own children, being a part time project worker at Doncaster’s Women’s Centre working with vulnerable women and caring for her nieces, who were both wheelchair bound and unable to sit unaided or speak, has been demanding but her devotion has been unwavering.

Earlier this year she was named the Daily Mail Carer of the Year.