Community heroes of all ages who ‘positively impact lives’ celebrated at this year's Pride in Fenland
Community heroes were recognised at the latest Pride in Fenland awards ceremony.
The event that took place on Wednesday was organised by Fenland District Council and was the 17th of its kind.
The awards saw 87 nominations for individuals and groups that positively impact lives in the district.
Opening the event, at Wisbech St Mary Sports and Community Centre, Cllr Susan Wallwork said: “With every year that goes by, I become increasingly humbled by the voluntary community in Fenland.
“Individuals of diverse ages and backgrounds are regularly making a meaningful difference to Fenland residents in a multitude of ways.
“These awards shine a spotlight on you. It’s also important that we acknowledge the huge numbers of volunteers not in this room who may not have received a nomination, but are no less deserving, and also make a difference to lives every day.
“We would like to give our heartfelt thanks to these people as well as to those of you here tonight.”
Cllr Wallwork and Cllr Sam Clark made the night’s announcements.
All nominees were invited to the event, where the impact they have each made was mentioned and recognised.
Winners were selected in eight categories, and runners-up in six of those, who all received trophies and £50 and £25 prizes respectively.
Jane Melloy, aged 84, was awarded the Lifetime Volunteer Award for all she still does to support Tydd St Giles and the wider community, as well as her years spent as a magistrate and then supporting witnesses in court as a witness service volunteer.
Jane said: “It's very flattering, but it is not me, it's the whole community that I live in. Alright, I have been involved in various things in the community, but without the community joining together to get things done, these things would not have happened. It is not just about an individual, it’s about a community.”
Roll of Honour:
- Lifetime Volunteer Award – Jane Melloy
Dedicated community volunteer and fundraiser, in Tydd St Giles, and a former magistrate and witness service volunteer, Jane has given many decades of service to her community and continues to do so now she is in her 80s.
- Special Judges’ Award – Steph Webb
Youth worker Steph shows outstanding dedication and support to Fenland youth projects, consistently inspiring young people and providing unparalleled opportunities, and goes above and beyond in her job.
- Fundraiser winner - Gary and Jay Dorman
Brothers Gary and Jay run the Fen Diggers metal detecting club and organise year-round charity fundraisers for good causes, raising more than £10,000 last year alone.
- Fundraiser runner-up – Luke Connolly
Generous Wisbech businessman Luke never stops giving back to the community, ranging from sending people on holidays to supporting fundraisers.
- Sports and Recreation winner - Bob Fitzjohn
Bob is a ‘cornerstone of our community’. He is the organiser of fishing matches, a dedicated supporter of accessible fishing, and keeps March tidy through riverside litter picking groups.
- Sports and Recreation runner-up – Whittlesey Small Fry Youth Fishing Club coaching team
Whittlesey Small Fry Fishing Club’s volunteer team takes children fishing, teaches environmental matters, anti-pollution, water safety, and takes education into primary schools.
- Community Champion winner – Sarah Perkins
Sarah consistently goes above and beyond, involving Lyncroft Care Home residents, where she works, and the wider community in different yarn bomb events (colourful public yarn displays, such as post box toppers).
She also established a St John’s Ambulance group, helping youngsters gain vital first aid skills.
- Community Champion runner-up – Anna Foster
Dedicated and compassionate Anna has helped reduce food waste while tackling food insecurity, running a community pantry in Whittlesey.
- Community Volunteer winner – Spike Bailey
Chatteris In Bloom and the Friends of Little Acre Pocket Park (FLAPP) volunteer Spike is out in all weathers, pulling up weeds, tidying flower beds and planting trees and shrubs.
Spike is always polite, cheerful, and willing to help, and makes a notable difference.
- Community Volunteer – runner-up – Graham Chappell
Chairman of Fenland Road Safety Campaign (Charlotte’s Way), Graham endlessly and tirelessly campaigns for better road safety measures and education. His actions have undoubtedly saved lives.
- Special mention – in memory of Heather Johnson
A special certificate was given in memory of Heather Johnson in recognition of her dedication, compassion, and tireless work in wildlife care.
Heather, who founded Heather's Hedgehog Hostel, in Chatteris, died on June 17.
Teacher Heather's life was dedicated to supporting children and rescuing animals.
- Community Group winner – Wisbech Youth Café
The team at Wisbech Youth Café create a safe space and engage young people in positive activities, from sport sessions to community involvement.
They bring a sense of pride and belonging and make a tangible difference in countless lives.
- Community Group runner-up – Damsons Community Group
The volunteers provide invaluable care and support to both dementia sufferers and their families at their weekly club in Wisbech, creating a restful, happy environment, offering stimulation, fun and vital information.
- Youth Volunteer winner – Kai Stoner
Junior parkrun volunteer Kai shows exceptional dedication and efficiency, infectious and inspiring enthusiasm. He is an outstanding and inspiring role model.
Without Kai, the Junior parkrun wouldn’t be the same joyful experience for so many families.
- Youth Volunteer runner-up – Cody Lenton
Cody has used his own experiences and challenges of dealing with ADHD, autism, and hearing loss, to connect with young people and become involved in detached youth work in Whittlesey.
