In February's edition:
Penrith Town Council is delighted to announce the winners of the 2026 Penrith Community Awards, recognising individuals and groups whose dedication and compassion make a positive impact on life in the town.
Community Recognition Award
 Cllr Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor) & Rosemary Glassbrook.
A huge congratulations to the winner of the Community Recognition Award of the 2026 Penrith Community Awards – Rosemary Glassbrook!
The Community Recognition Award was presented to Rosemary Glassbrook, recognising her long‑standing and selfless dedication to fostering and her involvement in the Purple Footprint project, helping to reduce loneliness, connect generations and improve wellbeing across the Penrith community.
Rosemary was nominated for her kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to supporting others. She has fostered children for many years, always driven by a desire to support young people and give back to the Penrith community. Through her work with the Purple Footprint project, Rosemary has also helped bring people of all ages together and has made a lasting, positive impact on many lives across the town.
Cllr Val Bowen, Penrith Town Council Chair & Penrith Mayor, said:
“Rosemary is one of those people who quietly makes a huge difference. Through fostering and her work with the Purple Footprint project, she has given so much of her time and care to others. Her commitment to supporting people and reducing loneliness has had a real impact across Penrith, and this award is a well‑deserved recognition of that.”
Youth Community Recognition Award
 Cllr Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor), Elizabeth Hudspith-Spence.
A huge congratulations to the winner of the Youth Community Recognition Award at the 2026 Penrith Community Awards - Elizabeth Hudspith‑Spence!
The Youth Community Recognition Award was presented to Elizabeth Hudspith‑Spence, celebrating the outstanding contribution and influence of a young person making a real difference in Penrith. Elizabeth was recognised for her sustained commitment to children and young people’s wellbeing over several years.
Elizabeth is a key figure in Euphoric Circus, where she leads and delivers programmes supporting the wellbeing of children and young people. Her work promotes physical and mental wellbeing at a time when both are increasingly challenged for young people, offering regular sessions, one‑to‑one support and safe spaces where young people can thrive.
Alongside Euphoric Circus, Elizabeth is a qualified youth worker and a passionate advocate for the voices of children and young people in Penrith. She plays an active role in community and action groups, including work linked to Castle Park and the development of new facilities for young people, ensuring their needs are heard and reflected. She is also involved with the Cumbria Youth Alliance, representing young people at a local and national level, and continues to develop her leadership through the Brathay Trust Aspiring Leaders Programme.
Cllr Val Bowen, Penrith Town Council Chair & Penrith Mayor, said:
“Elizabeth is an outstanding example of the difference a young person can make in their community. Her passion, energy and determination to create opportunities, support wellbeing and make sure young people are heard is inspiring. Through Euphoric Circus and her wider community work, Elizabeth is making a real and lasting difference, and she thoroughly deserves this recognition.”
Community Group Award Presented to UCC Wellbeing Champions
 Image Description: Cllr Val Bowen (Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor), Lily, Zahraa & Jamie (UCC Students) and Stephen Gilby (Headteacher of Ullswater Community College).
A huge congratulations to the winners of the Community Group Award of the 2026 Penrith Community Awards - UCC Wellbeing Champions!
UCC Wellbeing Champions are a youth‑led group from Ullswater Community College who volunteer their time each week to support wellbeing initiatives and help organise volunteering activities. The group was nominated by Occupational Therapist, Louisa Waite, and recognised for volunteering two hours each week, sometimes more, while balancing full‑time study and often part‑time work.
The Wellbeing Champions were praised for being compassionate, reliable and consistently willing to support others, setting a strong example of good citizenship within Penrith.
The award was presented to Lily, Jamie and Zahraa, whose dedication and commitment to supporting the wellbeing of others has had a positive impact both within their school and the wider community.
Following the presentation of the community award Stephen Gilby, Headteacher of Ullswater Community College said,
"I couldn't be more proud of our wonderful Wellbeing Champions.
"Following their training in mental health support from our school's Occupational Therapist, Louisa Waite, our champions are now able to positively help any student who comes to their regular drop-in sessions.
"It's that Caring aspect of our school that our Champions embody and they fully deserve this recognition and award."
Cllr Val Bowen, Penrith Town Council Chair & Penrith Mayor, said:
“The Community Group Award is a fitting recognition for the UCC Wellbeing Champions. Their willingness to give up their own time each week to support others speaks volumes about their compassion and character. Balancing this commitment with school and, for many, part‑time work is no small task. They are a credit to Ullswater Community College and their families and a great example of positive citizenship in Penrith.”
Penrith Town Council congratulates all of this year’s award winners and thanks everyone who took part in the Community Awards.
Nominations for the 2027 Penrith Community Awards will open in the autumn of 2026, with the aim of continuing to recognise and celebrate the dedication of volunteers and community groups across the town.
For more information, please keep an eye on the Penrith Town Council website.
 Image Description: Penrith Events Collage.
Penrith Town Council has announced its exciting programme of free community events for 2026, designed to bring residents together and celebrate the town throughout the year. Developed and delivered in partnership with local organisations, including Penrith Business Improvement District (BID) and Penrith’s Chamber of Trade, this year’s programme follows the theme ‘In the Garden’ and offers activities for all ages.
After the colourful ‘Penrith Goes Orange’ on 25th April, the first major event of the year will be the town’s traditional May Day celebration on Monday 4 May, which will once again fill Penrith with rides, music, food and family activities. This year’s event will include a food court, community art space, performance arena and two music stages featuring local performers, alongside plans for a themed ‘green’ parade involving local schools and youth groups.
New for 2026 is The Great Penrith Picnic, taking place on Saturday 4 July in Castle Park. Delivered in partnership with Westmorland & Furness Council, the event will showcase the town’s summer programme, with live music, wild play activities, sports taster sessions and a range of local charitable and sporting organisations.
Throughout the summer, Penrith Town Council is also exploring opportunities to support a series of free family play days and live local music events across the town, through the Penrith Arts & Culture Group, along with potential collaboration on Penrith BID’s Summer Saturdays programme.
The year will culminate with the return of Penrith Christmas Sparkle on Saturday 21 November 2026, featuring live music, food trucks and a festive illuminated parade, alongside some new elements for 2026. These events follow the successful introduction of the Penrith Community Awards in 2025.
Cllr Scott Jackson, Deputy Chair of Communities Committee, said:
“Community events have a hugely positive impact on a town, bringing social and economic benefits while creating opportunities for people to connect with one another and with local organisations.
“We’re proud to support a diverse programme of events and look forward to seeing residents and visitors enjoy everything Penrith has to offer throughout the year.”
To stay up-to-date with this year’s community events, please visit https://penrithartsandculture.co.uk/
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 Image Description: Gerry Rusbridge (Left), Cllr Val Bowen (Right) standing in front of a Penrith Mountain Rescue vehicle holding the Penrith Community Grants Scheme Award Sign.
Penrith Town Council has awarded a community grant of £2,600 to Penrith Mountain Rescue Team to support a project aimed at strengthening the team’s operational effectiveness and emergency response capabilities.
The funding has contributed to improvements in the team’s ability to respond quickly, safely and effectively to incidents, particularly in challenging and remote environments. The project focuses on enhancing core operational capacity, ensuring volunteers are better equipped to support residents and visitors in times of emergency.
Penrith Mountain Rescue Team is a volunteer-led organisation providing a vital emergency service across Penrith and the surrounding area. Operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the team works closely with statutory emergency services to assist people in distress, often in difficult terrain and adverse conditions.
Cllr Val Bowen, Chair of Penrith Town Council & Penrith Mayor, said:
“Penrith Mountain Rescue Team plays an essential role in keeping our community and visitors safe, often in extremely challenging circumstances. This grant recognises the importance of their work and supports their ongoing efforts to respond effectively when people need help the most.
“We are proud to support dedicated volunteers who give their time and skills to protect others and provide such a valuable service to Penrith and the wider area.”
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Gerry Rusbridge, Penrith Mountain Rescue, said:
‘Penrith Mountain Rescue Team is very grateful to Penrith Town Council for the recent grant. This has allowed us to purchase essential communications equipment and a new, easily portable defibrillator. Both of these represent significant improvements in our ability to respond and help people in need.’
For more information about Penrith Mountain Rescue and the work they do, please visit: https://penrithmrt.org.uk/
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 Image Description: Members of Penrith Rotary Club, Penrith Lions Club & Penrith Town Council. Image kindly supplied by the Penrith Lions Club.
Members past and present of Penrith Lions Club came together at Roundthorn Country House to celebrate the club’s 50th Anniversary Charter Lunch, marking five decades of dedicated service to the local community. The occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the club’s history and to recognise the long‑standing commitment and impact of its volunteers.
The celebration was attended by the Mayor of Penrith and Chair of Penrith Town Council, Cllr Val Bowen, alongside District Governor Lion Ian Francis and Ann Stuart of Penrith Rotary, highlighting the strong connections between local organisations. Around 40 people attended the event.
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Melvin Jones Fellowships to Lion Bryan and Lion Bernard, in recognition of their outstanding service. The club was also honoured to receive a certificate from HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, acknowledging Penrith Lions’ continued commitment to community work.
During the event, Cllr Val Bowen paid tribute to the club’s achievements. Speaking at the celebration, she said:
“It is an honour to be here this evening to celebrate a truly remarkable milestone - 50 years of service by Penrith Lions. For half a century, this club has been a quiet but powerful force in our community. Through your tireless volunteer work, you have supported many local individuals and organisations and raised vital funds for projects close to your hearts. Whether through hands‑on help, organising events, fundraising, or simply being there when needed, the Lions have always answered the call.
Tonight is also about the people, past and present members, partners, families, and supporters whose dedication has made these 50 years possible. Your contribution has left a lasting legacy, and Penrith is a better place because of you.
On behalf of the people of Penrith, thank you for your service, congratulations on this incredible milestone, and may the next 50 years be just as impactful. Happy 50th anniversary, and enjoy this special evening.”
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 Image Description: Time Out Bench.
Six new “Time Out Benches” have been installed across Penrith Business Parks as part of a wellbeing‑focused initiative led by the Penrith Industrial BID. The project aims to encourage movement, outdoor breaks and informal walking routes for those working in and visiting the business parks.
The benches have been funded, coordinated and installed by the Penrith Industrial BID, working with local businesses and partners to create accessible spaces for rest and reflection across the Gilwilly Industrial Estate. The initiative reflects the BID’s wider commitment to improving the working environment and supporting health and wellbeing on the business parks.
Penrith Town Council supported the delivery of the project by enabling its progression through the Council’s Finance Committee on Monday 10 November. The Committee agreed that the Town Council would accept responsibility for the ownership, maintenance and insurance of up to five benches installed by the BID on land owned by Westmorland and Furness Council. This support allowed the necessary legal agreements to be put in place, ensuring the benches can remain in situ beyond the BID’s current term.
Planting around the benches is now underway, supported by Westmorland and Furness Council, helping to create attractive, nature‑inspired spaces that can be enjoyed by employees, visitors and members of the public.
 Image Description: New Noticeboard on Scaws Estate.
A new community noticeboard has been installed on the Scaws Estate to improve access to local information and public notices.
The noticeboard was previously located on Brentfield Way, near Pewter Close. After being adopted by the Council from the now disbanded Scaws Tenants and Residents Association, it has been relocated to a more suitable position on the field off Brentfield Way, close to the play area.
This new location makes the noticeboard more visible and accessible for residents. A dedicated community section is available for local notices, and residents are encouraged to use it to share information about events, activities, and community matters. Magnets have been provided to make it easy to display notices securely.
 Image Description: Dog Waste Bag dispensers at Thacka Beck Field (Left) & Fairhill Playing Field (Right).
Penrith Town Council has installed new dog waste bag dispensers at Fairhill Playing Field and Thacka Beck Field to help keep these popular open spaces clean and enjoyable for everyone.
The dispensers have been placed at key access points, making it easier for dog owners to act responsibly when exercising their dogs. The Council hopes this will remove any excuse for not clearing up after dogs and help reduce fouling across both sites.
The Council asks all dog owners to use the facilities provided and play their part in keeping Penrith’s green spaces clean and welcoming.
"It was with great sadness that I learned of the death of Professor Michael Mullett, which was announced recently.
“Professor Mullett made an outstanding contribution to our understanding of Penrith and its history. Through his meticulous research, he charted the story of our town from pre‑history through to the twentieth century, producing six highly regarded and accessible books that have become invaluable to anyone interested in how Penrith developed into the town we know today.
“Michael was also a generous and engaging speaker, sharing his knowledge with wide audiences, including at several Words by the Water literary festival events. His enthusiasm for history and his deep affection for Penrith shone through in all that he did.
“His work continues to have a lasting impact. Professor Mullett’s research is helping to inform interpretation work currently being developed in the town, as part of the upcoming Borderlands project, ensuring that Penrith’s story is shared accurately and thoughtfully with residents and visitors alike.”
“On behalf of Penrith Town Council and the wider community, I would like to recognise and thank Professor Mullett for his remarkable contribution. We also extend our sincere sympathy to his family at this sad time. His legacy will continue to shape how we understand and celebrate Penrith for generations to come.”
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Any member of the public can attend Council meetings. The Council's upcoming meetings are detailed below with dates, times and venues.
Full Council Meeting:
- Date: Monday 16 March 2026
- Time: 6pm - 8pm
- Venue: Board Room, Unit 1 Church House, 19-24 Friargate
Planning Committee:
- Date: Monday 13 April 2026
- Time: 5.15pm - 7.15pm
- Venue: Unit 2, Church House, 19-24 Friargate
Finance Committee:
- Date: Monday 27 April 2026
- Time: 5.15pm - 7.15pm
- Venue: Board Room, Unit 1 Church House, 19-24 Friargate
Communities Committee:
- Date: Monday 23 March 2026
- Time: 5.15pm - 7.00pm
- Venue: Boardroom, Unit 1, Church House, 19-24 Friargate
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