James Philp- our Billy Vigar Award Winner and Isthmian of the Season, 25-26

Our Awards Evening on Saturday saw the presentation of many prizes, but without doubt the most important award was our newest, the Billy Vigar Award Winner for Isthmian of the Season.

The Board of the Isthmian League decided to introduce this award in Billy's name, to honour ‘the most sporting achievement of the season.’ There were a number of excellent nominations submitted by our clubs, but the winner was chosen as James Philp of Cambridge City, and when you read the nomination- which came from Brantham Athletic's Vice-Chair Darren Smith, and which we've reproduced in full- we're sure that you'll quickly understand why.

'During our recent fixture, the competitive atmosphere was suddenly shattered when (one of our players) collapsed unexpectedly. In those terrifying seconds where the stadium falls silent and panic begins to take hold, James Philp did not hesitate. Without regard for the phase of play or the scoreline, he was the first person at Ashton’s side.

James acted as a vital bridge between the crisis and the care Ashton required. He worked in seamless tandem with the match officials to urgently summon the medical teams from both Brantham and Cambridge City. However, it was what James did next that defined his character: he stayed.

Throughout the duration of the emergency, while Ashton was treated on the turf, James remained a constant, grounding presence. We later learned that James serves the community professionally at Addenbrooke’s Hospital; that clinical expertise was evident, but it was his profound empathy that left the lasting impression. His "professional calm" didn’t just provide medical security—it provided emotional sanctuary for every player, official, and supporter watching in fear.

In a league still healing from the loss of one of its own, James Philp’s actions reminded us all that we are a community first and rivals second. He turned a moment of potential tragedy into a testament of human kindness. We believe there is no more fitting recipient for an award carrying Billy Vigar's name than a man who saw a fellow player in need and stepped forward to protect a life.'

We'd like to thank Darren for his beautiful words, and thank all others who submitted nominations. The other extremely worthy candidates were Ally Maloney of Cray Wanderers, Louise Bleach of Potters Bar Town and Kieran Payne of Sittingbourne, and we send our enormous appreciation and gratitude to each of them for their considerable efforts. 

The Isthmian motto is ‘’Honor Sufficit'- the honour of doing something is sufficient- and, whilst we've no doubt that James and his fellow nominees would agree with that, it is only right that their incredible actions are further celebrated.

Many congratulations, once more,  to James- who had his award presented to him by Billy's parents, Keith and Camilla.