Seven local sporting heroes join Sporting Hall of Fame

Some of the city’s most inspiring people from the world of sport have become the latest people to be inducted into the Stoke-on-Trent Sporting Hall of Fame.

The latest inductees include local broadcasting legend Nigel Johnson alongside athletes, coaches and volunteers who have represented Stoke-on-Trent at the highest levels and helped develop grassroots sport in their communities.

A total of seven names from a wide variety of sports, including football, martial arts, cricket and endurance sport, have joined sporting icons including Sir Stanley Matthews, Phil Taylor and Gordon Banks in being recognised on the prestigious list.

The seven people that have been inducted are: 

• Tara Burndred – Multiple Ju Jitsu World Champion, international competitor and respected coach who has developed generations of martial artists.
• Clive Dean – Long-serving grassroots football volunteer whose work with Ladsandads and local clubs has supported young people in sport for more than 50 years.
• Gary Hall MBE – Former British Taekwondo Champion and Performance Director of GB Taekwondo, who has helped lead the sport to Olympic and world success.
• Nigel Johnson – Former BBC Radio Stoke sports broadcaster whose commentary and reporting covered local sport for more than five decades.
• Dave Juggins – World Duathlon Champion and multiple European medallist who has represented England and Great Britain in endurance sport.
• Kieron McKinney – England disability cricketer, Ashes competitor and multi-sport athlete who has achieved success at national and international level.
• Neil McPherson – Dedicated sports figure recognised for his outstanding contribution and service to sport.

They were all honoured at a special induction ceremony at Stoke Town Hall on Friday 9 October 2026.

Councillor Joan Bell, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, said: "Our latest inductees into the Sporting Hall of Fame have given their talent and commitment to sport both locally and on the international stage and we are proud to honour them all with a place in this esteemed list of sporting stars.

“The new inductees have represented their city and country on the international stage, inspired future generations through grassroots sport and helped keep local audiences connected to sport through decades of broadcasting and reporting.

"Their achievements are inspiring to all of us in Stoke-on-Trent and it is a privilege to honour them and celebrate their individual legacies."