A Headteacher who has gone to huge lengths to support his community during 20 packed years at his school has been celebrated at the 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards.
This summer Adrian Antell is retiring after 20 years as head teacher at Farnborough Junior School In Birkdale in Southport.
Last summer he leapt out of a plane in a skydive for Elsie’s Story, in honour of Elsie, a beloved former pupil.
He’s a rule breaker himself, spending time ‘inside’ in the ‘Jail and Bail’ fundraiser, raising thousands of pounds for Queenscourt Hospice.
And following the Southport tragedy, he launched a “Love My Community” day, raising over £6,000 for North West Air Ambulance.
He was recognised as a Finalist in the Sefton Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by LWC Drinks at the ceremony, which took place at The Grand in Southport. #
One nomination for Mr Antell said: “This summer Adrian Antell is retiring after more than 20 years at Farnborough Juniors School In Southport.
There he has made a huge difference to the lives of generations of families.
Last summer he leapt out of a plane in a skydive for Elsie’s Elsie Story in honour of Elsie, a beloved former pupil at the school.
Part of the fundraising was a ‘No School Rules’ Day where pupils gave £1 for every school rule they broke.
He’s a rule breaker himself, spending time ‘inside’ – as part of the ‘Jail and Bail’ fundraiser for Queenscourt Hospice where 12 ‘inmates’ were ‘locked up’ and set challenges on the ‘chain’ gang’, only granted ‘parole’ when their supporters raised at least £999 in ‘bail’ money.
At the awards, Mr Antell congratulated Farnborough Road Junior School pupil Llewyn Sunderland, who was presented with a Seftion Child Of Courage Award.
His nominations include this one from North West Air Ambulance: “Following the tragic Southport incident in July 2024, 24 local schools united to support the North West Air Ambulance Charity – a service that receives no government or NHS funding and relies entirely on public donations. Two of the charity’s three helicopters attended the incident that day, highlighting the vital role this lifesaving service plays in our region.
“Led by Adrian Antell from Farnborough Juniors Primary School, the schools launched a heartfelt campaign called “Love My Community”, holding a non-uniform day on Valentine’s Day. Their incredible teamwork and compassion raised an outstanding £6,153.58 to help keep the air ambulance flying and saving lives.
“This nomination celebrates a community that turned tragedy into action. These schools demonstrated exceptional unity, empathy, and leadership by rallying together for a cause that saves lives every day.
“Their efforts not only raised vital funds but also inspired thousands of pupils, parents, and staff to understand the importance of supporting local emergency services. This was more than a fundraiser – it was a powerful example of community spirit, resilience, and care for others.
“The North West Air Ambulance Charity is deeply grateful to the Southport school community for their generosity and commitment to supporting a service that makes a difference every single day.”
The 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards celebrated selfless, talented and courageous people across 13 categories at The Grand in Southport on 24th April 2026.
The Main Award was won by Queenscourt Hospice founder Dr Karen Groves MBE.
The evening was hosted by former Sky Sports News presenter Fraser Dainton with VIP guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE and Mayor of Sefton Cllr Burns.
Funds were raised on the night for the ICU Steps charity, which supports patients in intensive care and their families.
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards are organised by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport in association with media partners In Demand Radio with support from Southport BID.
There are 13 categories including Child of Courage, School Of The Year, Community Impact, Charity Champion and more, plus the Main Award.
Next year’s event takes place on Friday 30th April 2027.
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