With the new year now in full swing, it's time to celebrate the everyday heroes of 2025.

Across Congleton, countless members of our community went above and beyond last year, raising funds and awareness for a wide range of important causes.

Below, we highlight just a few local Samaritans whose acts of generosity helped remind us what it means to put others first.

Remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to kind-hearted residents in Congleton. Share your heroes of 2025 in the comments!

John Eagle

In June, 71-year-old John Eagle cycled the length of the country.

He made the 1,000-mile journey from Land's End to John o' Groats to raise money for Beartown Rickshaw.

The entirely volunteer-run charity offers unique experiences to elderly and mobility-impaired individuals by taking them out on specially adapted rickshaws for rides through parks, along country lanes, and through the heart of their community.

Find out more here.

Andy Barratt

Ex-police officer and Congleton borough mayor Andy Barratt raised over £1,000 for Macmillan by shaving off all of his hair.

His stunt formed part of the Macmillan coffee morning at the Masonic Hall in September, held in memory of three lodge members and two members' wives who lost their lives to cancer.

Speaking after, Andy said: "Some people say I remind them now of Uncle Fester from The Addams Family, but I like the bald look on top.

David Barrow

David Barrow celebrated the release of his book, OH SH!T, I've got Bowel Cancer, this year.

In an bid to encourage more men to get checked, David took the bold move to share the journal he kept during his own cancer treatment.

A portion of the profits will go towards Bowel Cancer UK.

Next year, David will be completing a number of challenges for the charity, including a 106km run around the Isle of Wight.

Read more about David's story here.

The Ogden family

This year, the Georgia Leigh Ogden Foundation present a cheque for £9,598 to Macclesfield Hospital's Special Care Baby Unit.

The foundation was established following the death of Congleton resident Georgia in 2020 by her parents, Mandy and Mark Ogden, and her brother, Josh.

Mandy, who has worked at the hospital for 17 years, said: "We established the foundation to try and help ease some of the pain of losing Georgia, and turn something so tragic into something positive.

"By doing this we're helping to keep Georgia's memory alive, by trying to make a difference where it matters, just as she did in her life."

Find out more here.

Congleton High School

Students and staff at Congleton High School raised thousands as they took part in Movember.

Male members of the team grew moustaches while the girls walk, ran, swam and cycled 3,000km.

The month of fundraising culminated with three members of staff scaling Snowdon on Sunday, November 30.

In total they collected £7,163 in donations – the highest amount ever raised in a charity event organised by the school.

Click here to read the full story.