Award for Scarborough YMCA Volunteer

Friday, 30 December 2022 11:07

By Matthew Pells

Susan Richards has been awarded the Silver Order of the Red Triangle

Susan Bean, known professionally as Susan Richards, was awarded the “Silver Order of the Red Triangle” at the VIP performance of Rapunzel at the YMCA Theatre on 30th December 2022 by the Mayor of the Borough of Scarborough, Cllr. Eric Broadbent.

The “Silver Order of the Red Triangle” is a most prestigious national award that is given to non-YMCA staff members who have consistently volunteered within the YMCA Movement for a significant length of time and/or has had a significant impact of the work of a local YMCA. It is awarded by the National Council of YMCAs on nomination by a Local YMCA.

Sue has been involved with YMCA Scarborough since the mid 60’s. Her involvement began with her choreographing numerous YMCA Scarborough’s Youth Group shows and Pantomimes. This involved Sue working with all ages from 10 upward. This volunteer role was not only about teaching dances, but it also involved Sue providing advice, guidance, pastoral support and lots of care.

Sue was a Board member for many years. She also chaired the Theatre Committee and was a leading member of the local fundraising group, The Friends of the YMCA, which raised thousands of pounds for YMCA Scarborough during the 90’s, 00’s & 10’s.

Sue also had her business, The Susan Richards Ballet School, based in the YMCA for many years. As well as the hire fees brought in from the school, Sue would organise performances each year to raise funds for the YMCA, these brought in a great deal of money to help YMCA Scarborough keep its doors open. The ballet school had 1000’s of pupils attending over the years and ex pupils still talk fondly of their time spent with Miss Richards.

Although now retired, Sue is still an active and avid supporter of YMCA Scarborough. She is true an ambassador to the organisation.

Sue recently turned 80 and for her birthday she decided to put on a birthday celebration show in our theatre, Susie’s Final Fling. Many of her ex-pupils travelled from around the country and some from abroad to appear in the show. She didn’t want any presents or gifts off anyone but instead asked that donations be given to YMCA Scarborough, a fantastic £1000 was raised.