Rochdale kit man wins award for inspiring work

Kit man Jack Northover receives his award from Colin Bainbridge

He may not have shared the glory on the pitch when Rochdale AFC were promoted last season, but now kit man Jack Northover is one step closer to winning some silverware of his own.

That’s because Mr Northover, 57, has been named the regional winner of the Sound Barrier Star Awards competition, after his story of triumph over adversity charmed judges for its inspiration and humour.

The competition, run by Specsavers hearing centres in association with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, recognises ordinary individuals for their achievements or courage, despite being hard of hearing or deaf.

Mr Northover from Castleton, unexpectedly lost his hearing on one side after being treated for cancer in the jaw with radiotherapy 10 years ago.

But rather than let it hold him back, the 57-year-old has gone on to help hundreds of local people in a similar situation by raising thousands of pounds for charities across Greater Manchester.

Not afraid of a challenge, the Dale kit man has jumped from 18 planes and has even completed a 24-hour bike ride while also organising regular charity fundraisers in the process.


Mr Northover said: ‘I owe so much to my cancer treatment – it saved my life. Losing my hearing has never held me back and I look forward to raising even more money on the future for many more local charities.

“This award has come at a complete shock – I have never won anything before in my life, I am very happy”.

Avid Rochdale supporter Colin Bainbridge, who between home matches works as hearing director at Bolton Specsavers, nominated Mr Northover after learning of his charitable work.

“Jack has always been a man in the background who deserves his time at the front of the stage,” said Mr Bainbridge.

Ten regional winners have been chosen from entries received across the UK, five of whom will be selected to attend the grand final in London on 22 September to compete for the national title of Sound Barrier Star of the Year.