York’s early-morning hero wins national award for keeping city sparkling

York BID’s Chris Patrick scoops national honour at ATCM Awards.

York BID Street Cleaning Supervisor Chris Patrick – who quietly transforms York’s streets every morning – has been recognised on the national stage for his tireless work. Winning ‘Best Ambassador’ at the prestigious 2025 Association of Town & City Management (ATCM) Awards, held last night in Bradford, the award celebrates Chris’s dedication, drive and the daily difference he makes to the city he helps keep at its best.

Going far beyond his official duties, Chris is a well-loved figure in the community. For many years, Chris and the team have been relied upon to keep York looking its best for locals, visitors, and businesses. Most weekday mornings – before the city wakes up – Chris and his team are already out in the city centre tackling unsightly messes, including human waste and drug paraphernalia, with a can-do, positive attitude.

Chris Patrick said; "I take enormous pride in caring for this beautiful city. Winning this award is a wonderful surprise, but it really belongs to my team who roll up their sleeves with me every single morning – rain, shine or floods. We love York and we want everyone who lives, works or visits here to see it at its best."

A former chef who longed to work outdoors and be part of the community, Chris has been at the heart of York BID’s cleaning operations for eight years. He leads a team that works seven days a week, and his friendly demeanour and tireless work ethic have made him a go-to person for countless businesses.

Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID said; "There’s not a hotel in York that wouldn’t welcome Chris with a bacon sandwich - that’s how far above and beyond he goes. His attention to detail, strong initiative, and willingness to help mean he’s always finding ways to make the city better – whether it’s planting, painting, or quietly supporting events."

Chris doesn’t just clean the streets – he improves them. From prepping street furniture for Rejuvenation Days, to weeding, planting and rescuing a Nutcracker statue, he’s often behind the scenes making things better without seeking recognition.

Carl Nickson, Managing Director of Eboracum UK, the delivery partner responsible for York BID’s cleaning service, said; "York simply wouldn’t be the same without Chris. As the Street Cleaning Supervisor, he’s more than a team leader – he’s the heart behind the city’s daily transformation. He notices the details no one else sees and takes on challenges without complaint. In many ways, he is York’s caretaker."

The Rapid Response Cleaning Service Chris helps lead is a vital lifeline for levy-paying businesses, ensuring entranceways and footpaths are safe, clean and ready for the day ahead. His consistent dedication and humble, helpful nature reflect everything York strives to be.

The annual ATCM Awards celebrate outstanding examples of place-making and place-management across the UK and Ireland. The ‘Best Ambassador, Warden or Ranger’ category recognises individuals who go above and beyond to deliver a clean, safe and welcoming environment.