Withernsea is a place that has a unique way of pulling you into its close-knit community, and Darrin Stevens is a shining example of how one person can make a tremendous difference. This year, Darrin was named the recipient of the prestigious Town Award, presented by Withernsea Town Council, in recognition of his tireless efforts and contributions to community projects. From the Withernsea Riff-Raff archive to the restoration of the St Nicholas Church War Memorial Clock, Darrin’s initiatives have brought the town’s history and people together in inspiring ways.
A Well-Earned Tribute to a Humble Leader
Darrin’s nomination for the award highlighted his ability to unite people – not only through historical and creative projects but also as chair of the Friends of St Nicholas Church. Under his leadership, the group raised vital funds to repair the iconic clock tower, a landmark that means so much to Withernsea.
Reflecting on the award, Darrin said: “I am shocked that I’ve won this award. I truly don’t believe I deserved it. I think the Friends of St Nicholas Church should have won it. There are far better people out there than me. However, I am very proud to have received it. My wife was very proud too. But equally, I felt like I was collecting it on behalf of the Friends group, who have done a lot for the community.”
This humility speaks volumes about Darrin’s character and the collaborative spirit that defines Withernsea.
A Beacon of Community Collaboration
The residents of Withernsea were quick to commend Darrin’s achievements. One nomination emphasised the sheer determination and passion he has poured into his projects: “Having worked with Darrin on several occasions, I’ve seen his passion for the area shine through many of his projects. From leading the repairs to the St Nicholas Church clock to the Riff-Raff archive, he’s always on a mission. Despite financial challenges and setbacks, he’s powered through and achieved his goals. He has brought together people who wouldn’t normally meet and created a real sense of community and trust.”
Local Leaders Show Their Support
Withernsea’s mayor, Alex Camplin, expressed his pride in presenting the Town Award to Darrin, calling him: “An absolute asset to the town… dedicated to putting Withernsea well and truly on the map.” A spokeswoman for the town council echoed these sentiments, saying: “Darrin was selected… for all the hard work he puts into multiple projects to bring Withernsea back to life. Without his dedication, the restoration of the War Memorial Clock may not have happened.”
South East Holderness councillors Jon Dimberline and Sean McMaster also praised Darrin as a deserving winner, describing his work as passionate, driven, and inspirational. Councillor Lyn Healing added: “His passion and commitment have truly helped put Withernsea on the map. His work inspires others and brings our local history to life in exciting ways.”
The Man Behind the Legacy
Darrin’s story reveals the enduring connection he feels toward Withernsea. After a challenging childhood in Hull, losing his mother at the age of 12, he found stability and support in Withernsea, thanks to Graham and Rosemary White, who gave him a home during his teenage years.
“Withernsea became home,” Darrin reflected. “I was always mixing with the lifeboat crew – I remember watching a boat sink while we were sitting in it.”
After studying graphic design at Scarborough Tech and earning a master’s degree in operational management, Darrin became a teacher. For 30 years, he and his wife Flo lived in the South, dedicating their time to fundraising for the Royal British Legion in Northampton and raising nearly £500,000 in a decade.
But in recent years, the pull of Withernsea brought them back. “I never thought I’d come back, but this town has a habit of getting you involved. We said we wouldn’t, but here we are. It was like coming home again.”
Preserving History and Building the Future
Since returning to Withernsea, Darrin has poured his energy into several community projects that preserve the town’s rich history while also looking ahead to the future. His efforts have included:
- Reviving interest in St Nicholas Church through exhibitions, talks, and events.
- Leading the restoration of the War Memorial Clock, a project celebrated in a handover ceremony in October 2024.
- Withernsea Riff-Raff, an exciting initiative to create a digital archive of old photos and postcards. This project aims to tell Withernsea’s story through the lens of its people, businesses, and buildings. Darrin hopes to use these images to develop interactive walking trails and revitalise public spaces.
As the heart of these projects, Darrin continues to find new ways to bring Withernsea together and breathe life into the area. “Withernsea may be small, but it has the greatest number of clubs and people who want to help. Everyone gets stuck in because we have no money – we have to fight for ourselves. But the heart of this place is unmatched.”
A Shared Celebration
While Darrin received this year’s Town Award, he wasn’t the only nominee deserving of recognition. Other nominees included Emma Robertson, Jon Dimberline, Town SMART, Viki Foster, Andy Medcalf, Dave Penson (Blue Light Weekend), and Paul Whittaker, all of whom have contributed immensely to Withernsea’s community spirit. Their collective efforts reflect a town filled with dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure Withernsea continues to thrive.
A Call to Action
Darrin’s story is a testament to the power of community involvement, passion for local heritage, and the rewards of working together. His work is a shining inspiration for residents of Withernsea and beyond. Whether it’s by preserving history, creating new opportunities, or simply lending a helping hand, we all have the ability to bring people together, just as Darrin has done.
Congratulations to Darrin Stevens – a true champion of Withernsea!
