A proud and poignant moment for the Cathedral

We are delighted to share the wonderful news that the Cathedral has been named a finalist in the Charity of the Year category at the Wakefield Business Awards 2026.

This is a very special moment for the Cathedral community. It recognises the care, compassion and dedication shown every day by our staff, volunteers, congregation, supporters, partners and friends. Whether you give your time, offer your prayers, support our work or simply find a welcome within our walls, you are part of this achievement.

Dean Philip, said:
“We are incredibly proud to have been named a finalist for Charity of the Year. This recognition belongs to our whole Cathedral family and reflects the kindness, care and commitment I see here every day.

“For all of us, this is also a deeply poignant moment. During the past 12 months, we have experienced the heartbreaking loss of two much-loved members of staff, Rachel Copley and Tim Elvidge. They were far more than valued colleagues – they were dear friends who gave so much of themselves to the life of our Cathedral and to the people around them.

“We miss Rachel and Tim enormously. Their warmth, kindness and dedication touched so many lives and left a lasting mark on our Cathedral community. We dedicate this achievement to their memory, with our love and gratitude. I know they would have shared our joy and been immensely proud.”

To have reached the final is particularly meaningful in a year when the awards received a record number of entries. Every submission was independently evaluated by three judges as part of a rigorous and confidential judging process.

Claire Sutherley, Founder of the Wakefield Business Awards and Managing Director of We Are Wakefield, said:

“The response to this year’s awards has been phenomenal, with a record number of entries showcasing the breadth of talent, innovation and ambition across our district.

“To be named a finalist is no small achievement. The standard of submissions was exceptionally high, and our judges had some incredibly difficult decisions to make. Our finalists represent the very best of Wakefield’s business, charity and public sectors”

The winners will be announced at the Wakefield Business Awards ceremony at WX Wakefield on Thursday 12^th November 2026.

Whatever the outcome in November, we are already incredibly grateful and proud. Thank you to every person who helps to make our Cathedral a place of faith, hope, welcome and service. This recognition belongs to all of you – and, in a very special way, to Rachel and Tim.