BROMSGROVE’S busking bobby has been awarded a national accolade for his charity work with Socks and Chocs.
Ian Northcott, was one of the 67 winners across the UK to be handed the Halifax Giving Extra Award.
Each winner was given £300 in bonus bond vouchers and the national winner, who will be announced later in February, will receive a further £2,500 in bonus bond vouchers as well as a £2,500 donation to a cause of their choice.
Ian was recognised by the panel for his amazing work with the charity giving out socks, chocolates and sleeping bags to the homeless.
Nominated by Zoe Bishop, from Midland Heart, Ian has gone above and beyond for the people in his community by working tirelessly to organise the annual Socks and Chocs event, deliver donations to homeless centres and by raising awareness of the importance of foot care within the homeless community.
In 2014, Socks and Chocs donated an incredible 17,072 pairs of socks, 21,648 chocolates and 586 sleeping bags to the homeless.
Ian has also inspired people across the country to start their own Socks and Chocs branches with groups now in London, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle.
Ian said the Socks and Chocs ethos was ‘lots of people doing a little is better than a few people doing a lot.’
He added: “I’m delighted to win this award as Socks and Chocs does not spend its money on anything other than target items and this will allow us to buy some sleeping bags for those in need – it will also help with the publicity.”
Wendy Kitchen, Halifax’s community ambassador, said: “We’re delighted Ian has won a Halifax Giving Extra Award in Bromsgrove.
“The work he has done for the community is outstanding and truly deserves the recognition.”
Visit www.socksandchocs.co.uk for more.
