For the first time ever the David Bingham Trophy has been shared between twins.
The trophy – remembering the late David Bingham, a lifelong Boro fan who played a significant role in the club’s survival in 1986 – has been presented each year for more than two decades.
The criteria for nomination have changed over the years, and the award is now presented to a deserving participant, or in this case participants, from a Foundation programme having shown excellent attitude, willing to work, and going above and beyond what is required of them.
Seb and Alby are participants in the Foundation’s PL Inspires programme at Dyke house School in Hartlepool, working alongside the Foundation’s Amy Campbell and Danny Thompson.
They initially attended a provision that had a focus on Health and Wellbeing before gradually participating in wellbeing check-ins on a weekly basis.
During the last year, Seb and Alby’s mother, Suzanne, separated from her partner. She became worried that they may both follow in the path of their older brother, being involved in drugs and stealing through not having a male role model at home.
Her determination that that would not happen, coupled with that of the school and the boys, has paid off. The rewards are there to see.
Following a glowing report at a school parent’s evening, she commented: “I am constantly proud. I cried and to know I’ve done it single handed as a parent is the best feeling. Not one negative and so many positives not only about their work but about how amazing, polite, helpful, and well-mannered they are; just a complete credit to me.”
Amy Campbell, the Foundation’s secondary education coordinator, added: “School has seen a change in both boys for the better, allowing them to focus during their final school year. Through attending PL Inspires, Seb has grown in confidence within himself but also around others both inside and outside of school.
“Alby can now stay focused and the number of incidents he is involved in has now decreased, he thinks before he speaks or behaves. If the boys did not attend PL Inspires, there is every chance they would be how they were before. Seb might still have low confidence and self-esteem and be happy to sit back with others taking the lead.”
The final word goes to the twins’ mother, who says: “Keep flying boys and doing what you do. You will reach your goals and mam will be with you every step of the way. I love you both and will be forever proud of you.”
The twins are seen here receiving the trophy from Boro’s Grant Leadbitter.