UK’s top 20 local heroes named – including posties and bus drivers

A survey of 2,000 adults discovered who residents see as modest champions in their local areas.

The unsung heroes at the heart of UK communities have been revealed and they include the postmen and women who brave all weather conditions, the bus drivers who help you with heavy shopping bags, and the school crossing patrol guards.

A survey of 2,000 adults uncovered who locals regard as quiet champions in their neighbourhoods. Tech-savvy teenagers lending a hand to pensioners also scored highly on the list. Meanwhile, three in ten consider allotment holders who dish out free vegetables as vital community figures.

The top three qualities of being a treasured community member were checking on elderly neighbours, being a recognisable face who always says ‘Hello’, or being someone people can count on.

Sam Greer, chief operating officer at Stagecoach, which commissioned the research to spotlight and showcase the humble heroes at the heart of the UK’s local communities, said: “Many of the pillars of our communities, our everyday local humble heroes, are the ones we’ve known for generations.

“They’re the ones who make the small acts of kindness that have a big impact in the community. And that’s exactly what drives us at Stagecoach the determination to go the extra mile and give back to the community by saying, ‘we’ve got you’.

“These humble heroes don’t seek the spotlight, but without them, life in towns and cities across the UK would be far less connected, less caring, and less human.”

The study also revealed that seven out of ten participants believe independent business owners are vital for a thriving community.

This includes amateur bakers who bring cakes to the community centre ‘just because’, and corner shop owners who let you off 20p when you’re short on change.

Bus drivers were also hailed as unsung heroes, with two thirds agreeing they can make a significant difference as a friendly face in the neighbourhood. Nearly three quarters view buses as an indispensable part of their local area.

Reasons for this include their ability to connect vulnerable groups and reduce isolation by providing independence, mobility, and enabling people to stay connected with family and friends.

They were also considered fountains of local knowledge, able to provide directions and community news and as the backbone of local events through their facilitation of special routes or shuttle services.

According to 23 per cent of respondents, the definition of a ‘community hero’ has evolved over the last decade. Almost half suggested that many now go unnoticed without a digital presence.

Over a third expressed the view that online popularity is sometimes mistaken for genuine community contribution.

Moreover, there’s a belief that the term ‘hero’ has been diluted, with 30 per cent worrying it’s become ‘overused’.

Sam added: “Reliable, accessible transport is the lifeline that keeps these pillars in contact with the people who need them most. Whether it’s a bus service linking residents to the high street, or safe cycle routes making it easier for families to visit the local park, transport enables connection and collaboration.

“Without it, the vibrancy of our communities can fade, as people find it harder to reach the places and people that matter most to them.”

TOP 20 PILLARS OF A MODERN COMMUNITY:

1. The postie who never skips a house—even in snow, storms or during the school run
2. The school crossing guard who remembers every kid’s name—and their dog’s
3. The teen who volunteers to help pensioners with their tech
4. The neighbour who always brings your bin in without fuss or fanfare
5. The delivery driver who always leaves your parcel in a safe place
6. The allotment grower who leaves free veg out with a ‘help yourself’ sign
7. The bus driver who helps you carry your shopping onto the bus
8. The corner shop owner who lets you off 20p when you’re short
9. The amateur baker who brings cakes to the community centre ‘just because’
10. The shop assistant who tells you, quietly, that something will be half price tomorrow
11. The person who starts local WhatsApp groups and keeps everyone in the loop
12. The guy who always has jump leads and never minds being asked
13. The dog walker who always has spare poo bags for forgetful pet parents
14. The barber who knows your life story and never tells a soul
15. The person at the gym who gives you a cheer when you’re clearly struggling
16. The librarian who never fines you for late returns
17. The parent who always remembers extra sun cream
18. The street artist who turns drab underpasses into colour and character
19. The barista who never charges you for an extra shot
20. The local DJ who plays every wedding, christening, and street party for the love of it