In an emotional and heartwarming evening at Headstone Manor, Jennie Youle, a dedicated community stalwart, was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at Harrow’s Heroes on September 13.
The award ceremony, organised by The London Borough of Harrow, brought together the community to celebrate those who have made outstanding contributions to the borough.
Jennie’s journey to receiving this award began when she received an unexpected letter from Harrow Council, notifying her of her nomination for the Harrow’s Heroes Award.
The letter cited her “amazing work for Harrow and its residents,” recognising her decades of dedication to various charities and organisations within the community. The invitation to the awards ceremony followed, which included a special dinner followed by the presentation of the awards.
Harrow’s Heroes is an annual tradition aimed at acknowledging individuals or groups who have gone above and beyond to make Harrow a better place to live and work.
This year, there were thirty-nine finalists competing across ten diverse categories, and Jennie was one of four finalists in the esteemed Lifetime Achievement category.
Jennie attended the awards ceremony, which was graced by the presence of the Mayor of Harrow, Cllr Ramji Chauhan, The Deputy Lieutenant for Greater London, several Harrow Councillors, and Councillor Jean Lammiman, Cabinet Member for Community and Culture, who warmly welcomed the attendees.
The Lifetime Achievement award was presented by Cllr Paul Osborn, Leader of the London Borough of Harrow. In his speech, he commended the tireless efforts of the community, stating, “I do a lot of things as leader of the council, but one of the things I love the most is this night, tonight – this awards ceremony. It’s something I’m very proud of.”
The four finalists, including Jennie, took to the stage as they were introduced individually with brief descriptions of their remarkable contributions. Cllr Osborn opened the envelope and revealed Jennie as the winner of the award.
Jennie’s achievements spanned over four decades, during which she tirelessly raised funds and organised events for numerous charities and organisations in Harrow.
Her extensive contributions included a wide range of organisations, including the Pinner Association, Pinner Local History Society (as Joint-Chairman), Pinner Parish Church (‘Friends’ group included), Headstone Manor Museum, Heath Robinson Museum, Parents and Teachers committees at West Lodge School and Nower Hill High School, Pinner South Police Safe Neighbourhood Team Committee, the Save the Children Fund committee, and committees associated with the Scout and Guide Associations.
She also served as a Royal British Legion Poppy seller for over 50 years and was honored with an invitation to attend the Annual Service of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall.
Jennie expressed her gratitude to her family and friends for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
She was deeply moved by the honour and remains committed to continuing her mission of making Harrow a better place for all its residents.
