Our Principal Partner Hollywoodbets is proud to highlight and reward the great impact of companies and individuals in our local community with the initiative Hollywood Heroes. So far this seson, individuals and companies who worked with our Community Sports Trust have been chosen Hollywood Heroes. Recognised today for organising several initiatives and fund-raising activities, we welcomed Scott Hillman to Brentford Community Stadium when we faced Manchester United earlier this month.

Scott is the landlord of the Magpie and Crown pub on Brentford High Street. He was nominted by John Dale.

John said: “It was a relief when Scott took over the Magpie. Although in the middle of Brentford High Street, it was standing abandoned amidst the noise and dust of the Ballymore redevelopment. No one wanted it until Scott turned up. He soon had it redecorated and up and running.”

As if that wasn't challenging enough, COVID struck, followed by total lockdown. Undaunted, Scott turned the Magpie into Brentford's first ‘virtual pub’, revealing his unique talents as an entertainer. He'd dress up and run online quizzes and music nights. His events were a lifeline when everything was closed and people felt isolated and lonely. Scott didn't stop there, either. As soon as the Magpie reopened, he used it repeatedly to help the Hounslow FoodBox, the Brentford-based food bank.

Last Christmas he asked locals to donate food, toys and children's books (which he then gift-wrapped himself). During the UEFA European Championships in the summer, he held a very successful football raffle. During the August Bank Holiday weekend he launched the Magpie's own music festival, raising more than £500, again for the FoodBox. On Sundays he regularly turns the pub into a mini market for local traders. And there is ‘Scotteoke’ as well! With Brentford High Street struggling, he is an inspiration.

The Club would like to thank Scott for his great work in our local community. He is a true inspiration.

Hollywood Heroes was launched in conjunction with Principal Partner Hollywoodbets to highlight and reward the positive impact of volunteers and individuals in our local community. Hollywoodbets have provided nominees with boardroom hospitality tickets to say ‘thank you’ for all the hard work they have put in. Housing provider A2Dominion and the Hounslow Community Foodbox have also been recognised this season.

If you would like to nominate a Hollywood Hero, please contact [email protected] and request an application form. More information can also be seen here.