A Ballymena publican is one of three people from Northern Ireland who have been shortlisted as finalists in the High Street Hero category at this year’s Great British High Street awards.
Stephen Reynolds has been the face behind The Front Page Bar in Ballymena for the last 28 years. He was nominated by the Ballymena BID.
The awards, run by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and sponsored by Visa, recognise and celebrate local achievements on the UK High Streets. This is the first year the awards have included Northern Ireland.
The regional High Street Hero Award is a category highlighting exceptional individuals within the community who run great initiatives to improve the high street experience.
Stephen is also Vice Chairman of the Ballymena Business Improvement District (BID).
In addition, Stephen has been a member of many local voluntary organisations including the Board of Hospitality Ulster, Ballymena Retailers Against Crime (BRAC) and Ballymena Chamber of Commerce.
Speaking about making the shortlist, Stephen said he was delighted to have been both nominated and shortlisted.
“It was an unexpected surprise but I’m proud to be representing my hometown of Ballymena. Having the opportunity to showcase our wonderful town, and showing people what a great retail destination and business community we have to offer, is something I’m very proud of,” he added.
Stephen and the team at The Front Page Bar have given back to the local community by raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for various charities.
Encouraging people to visit Ballymena Town Centre is something Stephen is passionate about and he has helped drive various initiatives to bring people.
Alison Moore, Ballymena BID Manager said she was absolutely thrilled for Stephen and Ballymena.
“This is great recognition for him, Marie and the team at The Front Page Bar, in all that they do for the wider community. We’ll have our fingers crossed for the big event in London, but to be one of 12 finalists across the UK is fantastic,” she added.
The winners of the High Street Hero awards will be announced at the Great British Awards ceremony in London, which takes place in November.