John Biggin, Director of Doncaster Prison and Young Offender Institution, has been voted Public Servant of the Year at the prestigious Guardian Public Services Awards 2010.

John, who joined the prison service 25 years ago, won the award – sponsored by Unison - for his outstanding leadership, creativity and commitment to both prisoners and staff, including bringing the Doncaster Rovers football team into the prison to offer coaching sessions.  The award was voted for by members of the public.

At the awards ceremony in London last night, broadcaster Jeremy Vine, who hosted the event, said: “The judges who drew up the shortlist praised John for showing a personal level of commitment and dedication to improving the lives of prisoners that goes way beyond the requirements of his job.  He has shown great imagination, determination and sensitivity in his approach to running a prison, and his impressive achievements reflect this.”

David Brindle, The Guardian’s Public Services Editor, said:  “The Public Servant of the Year category is perhaps the toughest since the candidates have to stand the test of public scrutiny. John’s commitment to the prison service over 25 years is a true demonstration of what public service is all about. Much of what John has achieved has been the result of activities and incentives that dissuade prisoners from rule breaking.  For example, in the past year he has introduced media and arts activities to improve education and reoffending rates and has even encouraged Doncaster Rovers to provide sports coaching to inmates. He is a true inspiration, and my congratulations go to John and all the shortlisted candidates.”

Upon learning he had been nominated for the award, John Biggin said: “I very much appreciate the opportunity I have been given to express myself within this role. It is very difficult to get people to shine a light on the positive things that go on in prisons, and this award would reflect that."