Community Champion Maddie Moore Recognised for Bringing Oswestry Together

Maddie Moore Recognised for Bringing Oswestry Together

Oswestry Makers Market founder Maddie Moore has been named the August 2026 winner of the Oswestry & District Mike Harris Community Award, recognising her dedication to supporting independent businesses, encouraging creativity and bringing local people together.

Through her community projects and voluntary work, Maddie has helped create welcoming spaces where people can build friendships, develop confidence and feel supported.

She founded Oswestry Makers Market to give independent makers, artists and small businesses an affordable opportunity to showcase their work. It has since developed into a supportive network, with traders sharing ideas, encouraging one another and making lasting connections.

Alongside organising the market, Maddie arranges meetups, provides resources for traders and helps create opportunities for new makers who might otherwise struggle to get started.

Her commitment to the town also extends to Oswestry Memorial Hall, where she began as a volunteer before becoming a trustee. She helps promote the hall’s groups, events and activities, celebrating the people behind them and encouraging wider community involvement.

Working with a fellow artist, Maddie has also developed Sketch for Health, a creative wellbeing project designed to reduce social isolation and support mental wellbeing. Planned to begin in September, the project aims to offer a welcoming, judgement-free environment where people can enjoy creativity regardless of their ability or experience.

Maddie has organised community fundraising events supporting Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY), bringing together local businesses, volunteers and residents. The fundraising goal is to host a cardiac screening day in 2027.

Living with M.E. and fibromyalgia presents daily challenges for Maddie. Unable to work in a traditional full-time role, she has channelled her time and creativity into community initiatives that help others feel connected, supported and valued.

Owner of The New Saints, Mike Harris said: “Maddie is a wonderful example of someone who puts kindness and community at the heart of everything she does. She is creating opportunities for small businesses, helping people build friendships and making creativity more accessible.“

“Strong communities grow when people feel welcome and supported, and Maddie’s work is helping that happen in Oswestry. I am delighted to see her recognised with this award and thank her for the care, time and commitment she gives to others.”

Andrew Ruscoe presented Maddie with the award in recognition of her contribution to community life.

Maddie hopes the projects she has established will continue to grow, encouraging more people to get involved and helping make Oswestry an even more welcoming and connected place.