Huntingdonshire District Councillor Jo Harvey Honoured with Grassroots Award
Jo Harvey, Liberal Democrat Huntingdonshire District Councillor, has been awarded the prestigious Grassroots Award 2024 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the Huntingdon North community.
Jo’s passion for cricket and community engagement has been instrumental in bringing inclusive cricket sessions to the Coneygear Centre. These sessions, run in partnership with Cricket East and the Community Development Manager, provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy the sport despite the challenges posed by the unsafe condition of the current cricket pavilion, which also prevents junior cricket from taking place.
Thanks to Jo’s leadership and enthusiasm, plans are now underway for a brand-new community pavilion, set to open for the 2025 season, offering a safe and welcoming space for cricket and other activities.
Jo’s partner, Malcolm, has also played a key role by becoming a trained cricket coach to support these sessions. Her children, Andrew and Kathryn, actively participate as well. Kathryn, aged 10, shared her gratitude:
“Thank you for inspiring me to play cricket and getting me to try something new. It felt like the beginning of a new sport I still like. It helps me believe in myself.”
Beyond her work with cricket, Jo is a trustee of the Huntingdon Action Community Project, a charity dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing through education and creative play for children.
Jo’s tireless efforts continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of local residents, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of her commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive community.