Proud to Be Nominated for
Best of Manchester Award 2026 

Manchester has given me so much over the years. So being nominated for a Best of Manchester Award 2026, in the Art and Culture category, feels genuinely special.

I’m delighted and, if I’m honest, a little humbled to share that I have been nominated for a Best of Manchester Award 2026.

For me, this isn't simply about an award. It’s about the city I have called home for a very long time.

Manchester has shaped so much of who I am and what I do. From my work as a Manchester artist and cartoonist to my involvement in the creative community, the city continues to provide inspiration in the most unexpected places.

A rainy tram stop. Someone having a coffee. A conversation overheard in the street. A ridiculous moment on the bus. A familiar Manchester face.

Sometimes the smallest things make the best subjects for a cartoon.

Why Manchester inspires my art

My work is often about everyday life, the things we see but don't always stop to notice.

I use simple drawings, humour and storytelling to explore people, behaviour, modern life and the world around us. I like the idea that a small cartoon can make somebody smile, pause for a second or perhaps see an ordinary situation in a slightly different way.

That feels very Manchester to me. The city has always had a strong creative spirit. Music, art, theatre, writing, comedy, design and independent creativity are part of Manchester's character.

But creativity isn't only found in galleries or on big stages. It can be found in community centres, cafés, studios, markets, local exhibitions, independent businesses and people simply having a go at making something.

That's the Manchester creative community I feel proud to be part of.

“Ask not what your city can do for you…”

There’s a famous line that has stayed with me: “Ask not what your city can do for you, but what you can do for your city.” I think that idea matters.

A city isn't just its buildings, businesses or famous landmarks. It's the people who live here and the things they contribute, however small.

For me, that contribution is through art, cartoons, storytelling and creativity. I don't expect a drawing to change the world.

But if a cartoon makes someone laugh on a difficult day, starts a conversation, brightens a waiting room, encourages someone to visit an exhibition or simply makes somebody look twice at something familiar, then it has done something worthwhile.

Huge thank you

I have no idea who put my name forward for the Best of Manchester Awards 2026, but I would like to say a very sincere thank you. Someone took the time to nominate me, and that means a great deal. It is particularly meaningful because the nomination is connected to Manchester's art and culture.

And congratulations to everyone else who has been nominated.

There are so many talented artists, creatives, organisations, community groups and local champions contributing to Manchester in their own way. They all help make the city what it is.

Proud to be part of Manchester

I’ve lived and worked here for many years, and Manchester continues to surprise me. It gives artists stories. It gives cartoonists material. It gives writers something to write about. And, occasionally, it gives us four seasons before lunchtime. I’m grateful to be part of it.

Proud to call Manchester home. ❤️ I love MCR. 💝