The founder of a County Durham charity which supports thousands of families and individuals has been recognised with a High Sheriff’s award for voluntary service.
Clair McGregor, who founded Angel Trust in 2018, was presented with the award by the High Sheriff of the County Palatine of Durham, Dr Arnab Basu, in recognition of her commitment to supporting people across the county.
Angel Trust began from a bedroom in a local hotel, where Clair started the charity with a borrowed laptop. It has since grown to employ around 30 people.
The charity provides a wide range of support for people experiencing difficult circumstances, including homeless support, counselling and foodbanks, as well as running its Safe Night Hub, where they take individuals from places such as hospital discharge and homeless prevention and provide access to hot showers, warm beds, homecooked meals, new clothes, washing facilities as well as counselling and navigator services including support with online forms and benefits paperwork.
Its 2025 toy appeal saw more than 15,000 toys donated to children across County Durham.
Despite the growth of the charity, Clair continues to volunteer her time every day and remains closely involved in supporting the people who turn to Angel Trust for help.
The High Sheriff’s awards recognise individuals and organisations whose voluntary service makes a significant contribution to communities across the county.
Dr Arnab Basu, High Sheriff of the County Palatine of Durham, said: “Clair’s commitment to Angel Trust and the people it supports is remarkable.
“What began with a borrowed laptop has grown into an organisation which is there for countless families and individuals when they need help.
“She has worked tirelessly to build the charity, earn the trust of the community and make sure that support is there day after day.
“Recognising people like Clair is exactly what the High Sheriff’s awards are about, and it was a pleasure to present her with this award for voluntary service.”
Clair McGregor, founder of the Angel Trust said: “I’m absolutely delighted to receive this award.
“To see how far we’ve come is something I’m incredibly proud of.
“This award is also a reflection of our brilliant staff, trustees and volunteers because none of what we do would be possible without them.”
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
