A LOCAL man and Essex community leader has been named a finalist in one of the UK's leading awards celebrating equality, diversity and inclusion.

David Barton, founder of Get Started Art and Community Engagement Lead for Essex Freemasons, has been shortlisted for the Positive Role Model Award for Age at the 2026 National Diversity Awards.

The awards recognise individuals and organisations making an outstanding contribution to building more inclusive communities across the UK. Organisers said this year's finalists were selected from more than 80,000 nominations and votes.

Mr Barton has been recognised for his long-standing commitment to supporting people of all ages through community engagement, volunteering, creativity, mental health and wellbeing initiatives, tackling social isolation, dementia awareness, and building partnerships that strengthen communities across Essex, the UK and internationally through Get Started Art.

Speaking after learning of his shortlisting, Mr Barton said: "I am incredibly honoured to be recognised as a finalist. This recognition belongs to the many volunteers, charities, community groups and partner organisations who work together every day to make a positive difference. It is a privilege to represent Essex and to shine a light on the power of communities coming together to support people of all ages."

The National Diversity Awards ceremony will take place at Liverpool Anglican Cathedral on 18 September 2026, where winners from across the country will be announced.