Jo Smith Award Winner

We’re delighted to announce that John Kelly has been named as the recipient of the 2026 Jo Smith Heritage Award, recognising his outstanding contribution as a volunteer at Highbury Orchard.

John has volunteered at Highbury Orchard for an incredible 17 years, giving his time, knowledge and enthusiasm to help care for the Orchard and support the wider work of the Chamberlain Highbury Trust (CHT).

The award certificate was presented to John on 24 September by CHT Activity Planner Lucy Bailey-Wright, in the presence of fellow Highbury Orchard volunteers, who were there to congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition.

The Jo Smith Heritage Award is presented annually to a volunteer who has made a significant contribution to the work of the CHT. It recognises qualities including dedication, creativity, innovation and leadership, and celebrates the many ways volunteers help to make Highbury such a special place.

The award was established in memory of Jo Smith (1969–2022), a dedicated founding trustee of the Chamberlain Highbury Trust who played an important role in the Trust’s work to protect and celebrate Highbury’s heritage.

John’s 17 years of volunteering at Highbury Orchard are a wonderful example of the commitment and dedication that the award seeks to recognise.

Congratulations, John, and thank you for everything you have contributed to Highbury over the years!