02/07/2025
His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Mrs Jo Ropner and the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell hosted an event celebrating the extraordinary contributions of volunteers and public servants across North Yorkshire and Cleveland. 550 guests, all invited in recognition of their selfless service to their communities, were invited to a garden party at The Deanery, on 28 June 2025 and then later on to attend Evensong at York Minster.
Mrs Ropner said: “This Garden Party is a heartfelt thank you to the many people who quietly go about making our communities stronger, kinder and more connected. Their dedication is humbling and inspiring, and it is a privilege to be able to honour them in this way.”
The Lord-Lieutenant read a Loyal Greeting from His Majesty The King. This year’s Garden Party follows the inaugural celebration held in 2022, marking Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. The success of that occasion inspired a tradition that continues to honour and thank those who give so much to others. The Dean of York, The Very Revd Dominic Barrington welcomed guests arriving to the Deanery garden.
Elly Fiorentini, BBC journalist and volunteer, said: “One gentleman, who has been volunteering for 40 years, had tears in his eyes as he told me it meant so much just to hear someone say thank you.”
From the charity Autism Angels, Sarah Kekoa said: “It was a wonderful event, and we truly appreciated the opportunity to connect with so many inspiring individuals. The setting was beautiful, and it was a joy to see the community come together.”
Nick Beilby, attending with Ken Cooke, a war veteran, noted: “Ken didn’t want to go home. When I dropped him off, he said ‘Haven’t we just had another great day.’ That makes everything so worthwhile.”
The success of the Garden Party was made possible through the generosity and collaboration of many; Shepley Spring (Flaxton) donated water, Yorvale supported the event with their delicious ice cream, Yorkshire Party Company catered the afternoon tea, The Band of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment and Swinton and District Excelsior Band provided live music.
Archbishop Stephen said: “I am so thankful for the steadfast service of volunteers and to all who made this event possible. Welcoming so many inspiring individuals to the Deanery and to York Minster was a joy – a true celebration of community, hope, and gratitude.”
Notes to Editors
Photography Credit: Samantha Ward
Swinton Band, based near Malton, is a thriving intergenerational community ensemble and proud recipient of a 2024 King’s Award for Voluntary Service.