14 hours ago
'In many ways, he is York's caretaker': street cleaner wins award
A street cleaning supervisor in York has been named 'Best Ambassador' in a UK and Ireland-wide award event.
Chris Patrick, who works for York BID, was recognised at the 2025 Association of Town & City Management (ATCM) Awards - which were held in Bradford on Wednesday (June 18) - for his dedication to keeping York city centre's streets clean.
Mr Patrick said: "I take enormous pride in caring for this beautiful city.
"Winning this award is a wonderful surprise, and I want to thank the whole team who roll up their sleeves with me every single morning – rain, shine, or floods.
"We love York and we want everyone who lives, works, or visits here to see it at its best."
A former chef who wanted to work outdoors and contribute to his community, Mr Patrick has led York BID's cleaning operations for eight years.
Mr Patrick and the York BID team celebrated his win at the awards ceremony, which took place in Bradford on Wednesday (June 18) (Image: Supplied)
A spokesperson said: "Most weekday mornings – before the city wakes up – Chris and his team are already out in the city centre tackling unsightly messes, including human waste and drug paraphernalia, with a can-do, positive attitude."
Carl Alsop, operations manager at York BID, said: "There's not a hotel in York that wouldn't welcome Chris with a bacon sandwich – that's how far above and beyond he goes.
"His attention to detail, strong initiative, and willingness to help mean he's always finding ways to make the city better – whether it's planting, painting, or quietly supporting events."
Mr Patrick's work goes beyond cleaning: he also prepares street furniture for Rejuvenation Days; weeds; and plants - and he has even rescued a Nutcracker statue.
A spokesperson said: "He's often behind the scenes making things better without seeking recognition."
Carl Nickson, managing director of Eboracum UK, the delivery partner for York BID's cleaning service, said: "York simply wouldn't be the same without Chris.
"As the street cleaning supervisor, he's more than a team leader – he's the heart behind the city's daily transformation.
"He notices the details no one else sees and takes on challenges without complaint.
"In many ways, he is York's caretaker."
The rapid response cleaning service, which Mr Patrick helps to lead, ensures that entranceways and footpaths in the city centre are safe and clean.
The service was described by a spokesperson as "a vital lifeline for levy-paying businesses."
The ATCM Awards celebrate excellence in place-making and place-management across the UK and Ireland.
The 'Best Ambassador, Warden, or Ranger' category recognises individuals who go above and beyond to create clean, safe, and welcoming environments.
