Retired East Sussex farmer John McCutchan has won a Times Sternberg Active Life Award in recognition of the Arlington Bluebell Walks, which he is hosting for the 53rd year this year having raised more than £1.1m for dozens of charities.
More than 3,000 people were nominated for an award, which celebrates the achievements of people aged over 70, and Mr McCutchan was one of only five winners selected by a panel of judges.
The retired sheep and turkey farmer travelled to 11 Downing Street to collect his award on Thursday 24 April with his granddaughter Louisiana Vine.
‘A wonderful legacy’
He praised his late wife Carolyn, who first had the idea for the Arlington Bluebell Walk and sadly died of cancer six years ago, and his friend Stuart Higgins, who died in March. A volunteer at the walks for the past five years, Stuart nominated John for the award.
John said: “Carolyn started the bluebell walks and everything we do there now is in memory of her.
“I had no idea Stuart had nominated me. He kept coming up with ideas to improve the visitor experience here and he will be sorely missed.
“They have both left a wonderful legacy and this award is in honour of them.”
“I’m just pleased to support so many great charities and enable people to enjoy our beautiful bluebells.”
NFU member and award winner John McCutchan
Humble origins
The first Arlington Bluebell Walk was held in 1972 and was intended to be a one-off fundraiser for Park Mead Primary School in Upper Dicker, near Hailsham, where Carolyn was a school governor. It raised £100 towards a new swimming pool.
The event has since been held annually, raising more than £1.1m for dozens of charities and attracting more than 20,000 visitors a year.
Determined to attend
Mr McCutchan suffered injuries from a fall a few days before the ceremony but said he was determined to attend.
He said: “I never expected to be standing in Downing Street getting an award like this – it was an incredible day and very memorable.
“I’m just pleased to support so many great charities and enable people to enjoy our beautiful bluebells.”
The awards were established by philanthropist Sir Sigmund Sternberg and The Times newspaper in 2008 to honour people aged over 70 who have excelled in charitable endeavours.
John’s granddaughter Louisiana said: “Seeing Grandad receive this award at Downing Street was a really special moment.
“He has given so much to the Arlington Bluebell Walk over so many years, not just building something beautiful for visitors and wildlife, but raising more than £1m for local charities.
“We are all incredibly proud of everything he’s achieved.”
The Arlington Bluebell Walk is held daily, between 10am and 3pm, until 10 May at Bates Green Farm, Tye Hill Road, Arlington, East Sussex, BN26 6SH. Head to the website to find out more.
