Welcome to the Bishopstoke Players website

Bishopstoke Players has been raising money for action for children for 60 years. The society was founded in 1947 as the Young Leaguers' Union to raise money for the Methodist charity, National Children's Home (now action for children, the children's charity). All profits from our productions are donated to action for children with more than £32,000 being raised since 1986.

In October 2005 the society's long-standing commitment to action for children was recognised by being awarded the first ever Stephenson Award. This new award, named after action for children's founder, Rev. Dr Thomas Stephenson, is given to volunteers who have shown an exceptional degree of commitment to action for children work with some of the most vulnerable children, young people and their families throughout the UK.

Stephenson founded what became known as the National Children's Homes in 1869. The Methodist minister was moved by the plight of children living on the streets, coming up with the idea of a home where children would be safe from poverty and harm. Now known as action for children, the children's charity continues Stephenson's vision by working with more children and young people, including those affected by poverty, disability and abuse, than any other UK charity.

Bishopstoke Players' President Peggy Walters, whose parents helped start the group says: "I feel very proud that the group has been running for all these years. We have several original members who still do an awful lot, a tremendous amount of work. action for children has always been a part of my life. As long as I can remember I have supported action for children and been aware of their work."

action for children's South West regional fundraiser, Katherine Linsley Hood, says: "The contribution the Bishopstoke Players have made for almost 60 years has been invaluable and really makes a difference to the thousands of children and young people with whom action for children works. It's great to be able to honour their work with our new Stephenson Award. The group's commitment has certainly been exceptional."