Community award is just Marvel-lous for Burton Latimer's Spider-Man

He brought a smile to people's faces and opened a McDonald's - and now Burton Latimer's very own Spider-Man has been named a Rose of Northamptonshire.

Party entertainer Brett Owen, 39, started running around dressed as the superhero in the first national lockdown last year to cheer people up after parties stopped as part of measures to curb the spread of Covid-19.

In doing so he left children grinning from ear to ear and raised £1,600 for Kettering General Hospital's Twinkling Stars Appeal.

And his efforts have now seen him named as a community hero in the Rose of Northamptonshire Awards, designed to recognise those across the county have committed themselves to response and relief efforts since the beginning of the outbreak.

Brett said: "It was completely unexpected to be honest and came out of the blue.

"Seeing the kids smile makes it all worthwhile and keeps me going too.

"I've had a lot of fun and raised some money so this just about tops it off."

Brett efforts previously earned him the honour of opening the town's brand new McDonald's in October.

Since then, and with large gatherings still restricted, he has been doing Spider-Man video calls and messages and Covid-safe socially-distanced visits as well as helping in the Save Wicksteed campaign.

And he's got some more plans to bring a cheer to the town over the coming months.

He said: "It's a bit chilly at the minute but I've got some plans for around Easter.

"People may just see an Easter bunny around Burton Latimer."

Brett is currently offering personalised video messages and well-wishes, for a small fee. Those interested should message the 'Party Spiderman For Hire' Facebook page here.

The Rose of Northamptonshire awards scheme was designed by Northamptonshire County Council and its leader, as well as the formal institutions of the High Sheriff's office and Lord Lieutenancy, to highlight those in every sector and locality of the county that have played a key role since the pandemic started.

To nominate someone, visit the page here.