Our Senior Events and Customer Services Manager, Andrea Cairns, has been awarded a Good Citizen of the Year prize from the City of Durham Parish Council thanks to her ‘invaluable’ contribution to the local community.
The awards recognise outstanding commitment to City of Durham life.
Andrea, who has worked at the University for 22 years, is involved in many events that make a huge contribution to the vibrancy of Durham City and region.
This is reflected in the awards and nominations that Andrea and her team have either won or been shortlisted for, including a North East Tourism Award, Service Excellence Team of the Year Professional Services Award and much more.
Andrea is instrumental in ensuring the success of major University events including graduation celebrations, the Lunar New Year festivities and Durham’s bi-annual light festival, Lumiere.
She is also the University’s representative for the Durham BID (Business Improvement District) and a key contact for the delivery of the City’s Durham Fringe Festival.
Beyond her day job, Andrea is an enthusiastic organiser of Durham City’s annual three-day Christmas Festival.
It is the biggest retail event in Durham City and in 2024 was rated among the best in the UK by the well-respected consumer guide, Which? magazine.
Adam Shanley, Clerk to City of Durham Parish Council, said: “Andrea is a transformative figure, tirelessly and endlessly making the case for further University involvement and investment in City events and her knowledge and experience have proven to be completely invaluable.
“There is nobody more deserving.”
Andrea, who lives in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, received her award at the City of Durham Parish Council’s Annual General Meeting in May, 2025.
She said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be nominated—it came as a complete surprise and left me feeling truly humbled and overwhelmed in the best possible way.
“To be recognised for something I’m so passionate about is incredibly meaningful.
“I’ve always believed in the power of community and the importance of working together to help our city thrive.
“Engaging with local people, supporting initiatives, and contributing to the growth and vibrancy of our city is something I find deeply rewarding.
“I’m proud to call this city home, and even prouder to play a small part in shaping its future."
Main image shows Andrea Cairns receiving her award from Councillor Susan Walker, Chair of City Durham Council.
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