A Crewe church has been recognised nationally for its work supporting local people, after being named as a finalist in the National Church Awards 2026.

Union Street Baptist Church has been shortlisted in the Church & Community Volunteer Awards, celebrating the people who care for the UK's church buildings and open them up for the benefit of others.

Supported by volunteers from across the local community, Union Street Baptist Church runs and contributes to a wide range of activities in Crewe, including its weekly Warm Hub, youth groups, Crewe Foodbank, Crewe Heritage Week, a Community Carol Festival, a guitar club, collections for Sal's Shoes and town-wide litter picking.

The National Church Awards are run by the National Churches Trust, a charity that works to keep church buildings across the UK well maintained, valued and in use.

Its patron is King Charles III and its vice presidents include Sir Michael Palin. The charity's vision is to see open churches thriving at the heart of their communities.

Secretary at Union Street Baptist Church, David Stockman, said, "We are delighted that Union Street Baptist Church has been recognised in the National Church Awards.

"This is a wonderful acknowledgement of the dedication, care and hard work of our volunteers, who give so much of their time to support the church and the wider Crewe community.

"From our Warm Hub and youth groups to local collections, community events and town-wide initiatives, everything we do is made possible by people coming together with a shared commitment to helping others. We are very proud to be shortlisted."

The church's Warm Hub, part of the national Warm Welcome Spaces network, provides weekly refreshments, companionship, practical advice and signposting to local support services.

Through its wider activities, the church aims to provide a welcoming and caring presence in the town.

Head of Stakeholder Engagement at the National Churches Trust, Sarah Crossland, said, "Reaching the final places Union Street Baptist Church among a small number of churches chosen from an exceptionally competitive field, and is a testament to the commitment, passion and hard work of everyone involved.

"The judges were hugely impressed by the quality of the submission, and the difference volunteers are making in the community."

The winners of the National Church Awards 2026 will be announced later this year. More information about the awards and finalists can be found HERE.

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Crewe Nub News, supported by Crewe-based family business, Swansway Motor Group, has launched the Crewe Prize Draw.

The Crewe Prize Draw sees one winner take home a cash prize every fortnight, with every ticket purchased helping raise vital funds for community-based causes in Crewe.

The next draw takes place on Thursday 8 October. Buy a ticket for just £2.