Ken proudly holding his award at the Hilton, Park Lane, Londonplaceholder image
Ken proudly holding his award at the Hilton, Park Lane, London

67-year-old Scarborough worker wins prestigious 'unsung hero award'

Every business has its pillars, those foundational individuals whose quiet dedication and unwavering spirit truly make a difference. At SWC in Scarborough, that unsung hero is undoubtedly Ken Boak.

For 15 years, Ken has been an indispensable part of our team, arriving as a fully qualified engineer seeking a new direction, and swiftly becoming the driving force behind our exceptional customer service.

Ken was awarded the Unsung Hero of 2025 at the Prestigous G Awards, held at the Hilton, Park Lane, London

This category was incredibly strong, with eight exceptional nominees whose stories were truly inspiring. Knowing the calibre of the field makes Ken’s achievement even more remarkable.

The G Awards is a highly prestigious black-tie event that celebrates the very best that the fenestration industry has to offer. Ken had never attended a black-tie dinner before, but joined by his loving wife Chris, what an unforgettable way to experience his first!

Ken’s dedication to helping others extends far beyond work. For several years, he volunteered twice weekly with the Samaritans, demonstrating a deep and enduring commitment to supporting those in need. This selflessness has also fuelled his efforts at SWC, where he quietly spearheaded charitable initiatives such as “It’ll Be Alright on the Night,” raising over £100,000 for local causes. His dedication has seen him undertake gruelling long-distance walks and even shave his head in the office — all to support worthwhile causes.

At 67, Ken’s loyalty to SWC remains unwavering. Rather than retiring, he chose to reduce his hours, a testament to his love for the team. Colleagues describe him as humble, selfless, and deeply caring — a true embodiment of what it means to be an unsung hero.

Ken’s impact goes far beyond work. Known for his generosity, humour, and unwavering support, he has shaped the culture at SWC, fostering trust, kindness, and collaboration. Even at this stage of his career, his commitment to helping people and improving the business is inspiring. For SWC, he is not just a colleague — he is a cornerstone of the team and a shining example of quiet dedication and selfless service

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