


Middleton Hall Retirement Village resident Jean Barr (Jean Stuart) has been nominated for the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tees Businesswomen Awards 2026.
Jean, President and a founding member of North East Ladies Day (NELD), has dedicated decades to supporting her local community. She founded the charity in 1983 with a vision to bring women together in friendship while raising funds for local charities and deserving causes.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is one of the most eagerly anticipated categories of the annual awards event, recognising an individual whose dedication, leadership and influence have left a lasting legacy.
The award will be presented at the ninth annual Tees Businesswomen Awards, which return to Hardwick Hall on Wednesday, November 4, bringing together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals to celebrate the achievements of women across the region.
Through her commitment and passion, Jean has helped create a lasting legacy, making a positive difference to countless lives across the North East.
North East Ladies Day shared its pride in Jean’s nomination, recognising her remarkable contribution and the years she has devoted to helping others saying: “We are exceptionally proud to announce that our charity’s founder Jean Stuart has been nominated for the Lifelong Inspiration Award presented by Tees Business Magazine!
“As we all know Jean is an incredible lady, having founded our charity in 1983 and dedicated years of her life to making a difference in our community.”


Jean expressed her delight at her nomination adding: “It is quite an achievement at 91!”.
Everyone at Middleton Hall is incredibly proud of Jean and delighted that she has received this well-deserved recognition. Her nomination is a wonderful tribute to the difference one person can make through kindness, dedication and a commitment to their community.
