THE founder of a Bradford City supporters’ group says he is humbled to have been awarded what is billed as a people’s honour.

Humayun Islam, chairman of the Bangla Bantams, has been honoured with a British Citizen Award (BCA) in recognition of his community work in Bradford.

The BCA recognises exceptional individuals who positively impact their communities throughout the country.

 

Dubbed ‘The People’s Honours’ as anyone with an OBE, CBE of KBE is ineligible to receive a BCA, this programme recognises true community heroes for their divergent endeavours and positive impact on society.

Mr Islam is one of only 29 individuals to be recognised at the Palace of Westminster on January 26. and he will be honoured with The British Citizen Award for Services to the Community. He will receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour and invited to use the initials BCAc after his name as a legacy of his achievements.

Mr Islam has been pivotal to positive change, bringing the community together through his selfless voluntary work and community involvement in sport. He has planned and arranged events including ‘Believing in Bradford’, helping to banish racial tension and improve community cohesion.

He set up the Bangla Bantams in 2015 after many South Asian people living around Bradford City’s Valley Parade home said they suffered abuse on match days, resulting in many staying indoors doors from pre-kick-off time to long after the match ended.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: From left, Michael Dawson, Dean Windass, Humayun Islam and presenter Mark Chapman during Mr Islam's live interview on Sky Sports at Valley Parade in August last yearFrom left, Michael Dawson, Dean Windass, Humayun Islam and presenter Mark Chapman during Mr Islam's live interview on Sky Sports at Valley Parade in August last year (Image: Humayun Islam)

Humayun set up a multi-cultural supporters’ group ‘Bangla Bantams’ to encourage more fans from all backgrounds to attend matches at Bradford City.

Mr Islam says he is honoured to pick up the prize. He said: “It’s amazing. I’m a bit taken aback about things like this. It’s an honour.

“It’s unbelievable to be honoured and its breath-taking. I’m humbled to be one of 29 people in the UK to receive this honour.

“You never set out to get recognition, but it’s nice to get it.

“This award is a way of thanking the community as I have not just done this on my own.

“It’s about inspiring others really. This is why you do it.

“For me, setting up Bangla Bantams in 2015 was about providing opportunities for people who may have misconceptions about going to Bradford City.

“It is going to be an opportunity to get down to London for a full day’s event at the House of Lords.”

The BCA Medal presentation is held twice annually, in January and July, to nominate an outstanding individual from your community, go to britishcitizenawards.co.uk

 

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