Ada Haywood: A Beacon of Hope and Charity in North Staffordshire
Ada Haywood, a 74-year-old former potbank worker from Clayton, has captured the hearts of many through her unwavering commitment to charity. With a remarkable £1.5 million raised over decades of tireless fundraising, Ada has been nominated for the esteemed Your Heroes Awards 2026, recognizing her invaluable contributions to society.
The Pink Tie Ball: A Testament to Dedication
Ada is known for organizing the annual Pink Tie Ball, a cornerstone of her fundraising efforts that has gained tremendous support over the years. Her upcoming 22nd Pink Tie Ball, scheduled for September 19, has already sold out, demonstrating the strong community backing she has cultivated. Tickets for her events typically fly off the shelves within days, a testament to her popularity and the impact of her work.
Inspiring Others Through Her Work
Beyond organizing impactful events, Ada's dedication extends into her daily life. She wakes up at 5:30 AM to attend business networking meetings, promoting not only her charity work but also encouraging others to engage in philanthropy. Her advocacy has been lauded by peers, including Ben Halstead of Sempar, who referred to Ada's work as "inspiring and impactful," noting her ability to galvanize support for vital causes like Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Ada's philanthropic journey began after a personal tragedy, when a neighbor's wife succumbed to breast cancer at a young age. For Ada, the cause of cancer research is deeply personal, as it also honors the memory of her late husband, Peter. She remains focused on ensuring that vital research and patient support continue to flourish.
Recognition and Impact
Ada's efforts have not gone unnoticed; she received the British Empire Medal in 2018 and was a baton carrier for the Queen’s Baton Relay in 2022, even while recovering from a broken shoulder. Additionally, Cancer Research UK has honored her by naming a room in their London headquarters after Ada and her husband, highlighting the profound impact of her contributions.
Ada Haywood stands as a compelling example of how individual commitment can create ripples of positive change in a community. The upcoming Your Heroes Awards not only celebrate her achievements but also offer an opportunity to reflect on the powerful influence of charitable leadership and community spirit in North Staffordshire.
