Cumbria Woman of the Year 2026 – Leighann McCready

Sponsored by Nuclear Waste Services

Leighann has been recognised for her extraordinary courage, resilience and determination in turning personal tragedy into a powerful campaign for change.

Following the death of her daughter, Royal Artillery Gunner Jaysley Beck, Leighann became a tireless advocate for better safeguarding, accountability and support for serving personnel who experience harassment and abuse, launching a campaign to ensure her daughter’s voice would be heard and to press for meaningful change so that others would be protected in the future. Through national media appearances, engagement with organisations and campaigning at the highest levels, she has helped shine a light on issues affecting serving and former members of the Armed Forces.

Her campaign, Jaysley’s Voice, has reached audiences across the UK and beyond, encouraging hundreds of serving and former soldiers to come forward and share their own experiences. Leighann’s unwavering determination has helped drive important conversations around safeguarding, culture and accountability within the military.

Alongside her campaigning work, Leighann has raised more than £40,000 for the Centre for Military Justice, supporting individuals and families affected by sexual violence, harassment, discrimination and other forms of abuse within the Armed Forces.

Throughout this difficult journey, Leighann has continued working as a carer, a role she has carried out for more than 26 years. Her dedication, strength and commitment to ensuring no other family experiences what hers endured made her a unanimous choice for this year’s award.

Special Achievement Award – Samantha Gibson

Sponsored by Dodd & Co 

Samantha Gibson, founder of Jack’s Journey, received the Special Achievement Award in recognition of her extraordinary efforts supporting families affected by childhood cancer. Following her son Jack’s diagnosis with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in 2016, Samantha recognised the need for practical and emotional support for families facing similar experiences.

What began as an idea during one of the most challenging periods of her life has grown into a charity that provides vital support to hundreds of families. Through Jack’s Journey, Samantha offers practical assistance, fundraising support, guidance and a compassionate ear to those navigating the trauma of childhood cancer.

Her resilience, compassion and determination have delivered vital support for families across Cumbria and beyond.

Services to the Community– Abigail Graham

Sponsored by GRAHAM

Abigail Graham was recognised for her outstanding leadership and dedication to rural communities through her work with Cumbria Young Farmers’ Clubs. Having been involved with Young Farmers since the age of 10, Abigail has held numerous roles at club, district and county level and currently serves as County Chair.

Known for her energy, commitment and enthusiasm, Abigail supports 25 clubs across the county, travelling extensively to encourage participation, celebrate achievements and create opportunities for young people living in rural areas.

She has also led major fundraising initiatives, including a Sahara Desert charity challenge and a Three Peaks expedition, inspiring young people while raising money for worthwhile causes. Earlier this year, her dedication was recognised nationally when she was named Senior Member of the Year.

Outstanding Contribution – Rosalind Niedt

Sponsored by Muckle LLP

For more than five decades, Rosalind Niedt has dedicated her life to supporting communities across Cumbria. Her remarkable record of public service includes helping establish the Cumbria Alcohol & Drug Advisory Service (CADAS), serving as a Magistrate and Presiding Justice, supporting Childline, NSPCC, Hospice at Home, Linking Lives and numerous other charities and community organisations.

Rosalind’s commitment to tackling social injustice, supporting vulnerable people and improving the lives of others has touched countless individuals and families throughout the county. Widely respected for her compassion, kindness and quiet determination, she continues to make an invaluable contribution to community life in Cumbria.