Leeds couple honoured for 'incredible' voluntary service in Bramley

A husband and wife team who are the driving force behind a  community group that supports dozens of vulnerable families in Bramley have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours 2021.
By Mark Lavery
Published 12th Jun 2021, 04:45 BST
Updated 12th Jun 2021, 11:04 BST
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Grandparents Philip and Angela McConnell have each been awarded a British Empire Medal for services to the community for their work with Bramley Care Bears.

The couple set up the community support group in October 2019 because they wanted to do something positive after witnessing deprivation in the area.

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Around 35 volunteers run regular food bank sessions which help up around 90 families a week.

Philip and Angela McConnell Photo: Jonathan GawthorpePhilip and Angela McConnell Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
Philip and Angela McConnell Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe

Bramley Care Bears volunteers do garden makeovers for vulnerable tenants and community litter picks.

And they organise craft activities and are set to launch a homework club for local school children who need help with their studies.

Group chairman Philip, 52, said: "Our aim is to consider anything that benefits the community."

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He added: "We were very surprised to receive this wonderful honour."