LC Pop Choir, from Leeds Conservatoire, was invited to perform at this year’s BBC Radio Leeds Make A Difference Awards, an event which honours local people who make life better for others.
Images throughout courtesy of BBC Radio Leeds
The ceremony, hosted by BBC Radio Leeds presenter Gayle Lofthouse, took place at New Dock Hall, Royal Armouries. Members of LC Pop Choir performed ‘Simply The Best’ live on Gayle’s mid-morning weekday show previously and impressed the presenter, the wider BBC Radio Leeds team and listeners, which led to the opportunity at New Dock Hall.
LC Pop Choir treated attendees to a trio of specially selected performances. These were rousing renditions of ‘Don’t Stop Believin’, ‘You Got The Love’ and ‘Unwritten’, befitting the ceremony’s celebratory atmosphere.
Make A Difference 2026 winners with BBC Radio Leeds' Gayle Lofthouse
The BBC Radio Leeds Make A Difference 2026 winners were as follows:
- Community Group Award - SEN Parent Support Group and Andrea Dixon-Boldy in Kirklees.
- Animal Award - Sue Shaw and Huddersfield Badgers.
- Fundraiser Award - Dr Shaunna Burke, from Ilkley, and Dying to Climb.
- Young Hero Award - Harry Evans, from Wakefield.
- Great Neighbour Award - Kate Wormald-Smith, from Leeds.
- Active Award - Suffia Hussain, from Project on Guard in Bradford.
- Environmental Award - EPIKS in Kirklees.
- Volunteer Award - Jade Lee, from Dewsbury.
The winners were each selected by a celebrity judge in their category, who have links to West Yorkshire. These included Kimberley Walsh of Girls Aloud fame and broadcaster Anita Rani.
LC Pop Choir welcomed the opportunity to work with BBC Radio Leeds and have an active role in this event, acknowledging local heroes. Led by Musical Directors Craig Lees and Declan Davies, LC Pop Choir is Leeds Conservatoire’s flagship contemporary choir, showcasing some of the exceptional talent nurtured at the creative institution.
Known for its vibrant performances and infectious energy, LC Pop Choir has entertained audiences in various settings. These include television appearances on shows including ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent, performances at iconic venues like the Royal Albert Hall, plus collaborations with companies such as Jet2holidays.
