NICHE BUSINESS AWARDS 2020
the Winners
There are many people who support all aspects of the Leicester and Leicestershire community and to be recognised as one of them is very special
of the newly built Riders’ home stadium, Morningside Arena. After this, he was personally asked to become Chairman of the Leicester Riders Foundation. “The Leicester Riders Foundation does some great work in the community with schools and children, and youth projects for the Police and Crime Commissioner for Leicestershire. That’s why we chose to get involved.” As if being a company director and chairman of a foundation wasn’t enough, Simon then took on becoming a trustee of the Furnley House Foundation – again, after being asked personally. When it’s safe to do so, Simon is keen to get back out there helping the homeless, preparing food bags for Leicester Hospital patients, and taking part in other initiatives led by the foundation.
Working in the community and further afield
Additionally, Red Monkey Play has supported the Leicester Comedy Festival & Kids Comedy Festival and Simon was a key member of the organising team for the Alternative Business Awards held at Curve theatre. Having lived in Leicester since 1989, he has played an active role in the community and is a regular visitor to Curve as well as a keen supporter of Leicester City, Leicester Riders & Leicestershire County Cricket Club. Another project Simon cares deeply about is one he is currently working on for the Ronald McDonald Foundation. The company is creating outdoor play equipment out of recycled McDonalds’ toys for parents and children who have to attend hospitals across the country regularly. Simon said: “It’s quite an exciting project. Recycling is very much at the forefront of everything we’re talking about recently and I think we’re all responsible for grasping more opportunities to recycle.” Thinking back to his award win, he said: “I am delighted to be awarded the Businessman of the Year at these highly respected Niche Magazine Awards. There was fierce competition and to be honoured in this way is very humbling. There are many people who support all aspects of the Leicester and Leicestershire community and to be recognised as one of them is very special.” NICHE | 49
