South Norfolk Community Awards 2023
Winners of the South Norfolk Community Awards 2023 have been announced.
Sponsored by Clarion Housing Group
The awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of residents from across the district, who go above and beyond to support others or complete incredible achievements.
Inspiration of the Year - someone who strives to achieve their best at work, in their studies, in sports, the arts, or in the community
Peter Bee and Glynn Jordan
Peter and Glynn have gone above and beyond to support families affected by the war in Ukraine. These two friends of forty years began fundraising and collecting donations in their local town, Harleston. The pair then decided they would drive the donations the full 1,300-mile trip to Lviv themselves, requiring a special security escort for the last part of the journey. Since the war began they have travelled to Ukraine on four occasions with donations and aid.
Young Person of the Year - a young person who has made a remarkable and inspiring achievements in support of their community (Aged 18 and under).
Sponsored by HSBC
Chloe Francis
Chloe, aged 16, is a member of the Wymondham Community Outreach Team, a group of volunteers who support vulnerablevresidents in the town. They run a variety of food and clothes banks and delivery services. Since joining the group three years ago, Chloe has become an integral and hard-working member of the team. The kindness and compassion she shows residents is appreciated by all.
Volunteer of the Year - an individual who has volunteered their time to make an outstanding contribution to their community.
Sponsored by Bawburgh Golf Club, our host for the evening.
Inekke Waloejo-Loke
Inekke plays a lead role in the Wymondham Community Outreach Project, a group of volunteers that respond to requests for support from local residents. She has volunteered 10-15 hours each week, for the last three years. Her role is to manage and collate food parcels that are delivered to over 100 residents in the local area. Inekke orders and tailors the food parcels individually after getting to know each family’s needs. She is described as a woman of integrity who serves her community with care and humanity. An individual who has volunteered their time to make an outstanding contribution to their community. The award was presented to her colleague, Arnie (right).
Helping Hand Award - a friend, neighbour or carer who always goes the extra mile to help or support others.
Dennis Harris
Dennis, a local delivery driver, goes the extra mile for his customers in Diss. Over the years, he has fixed broken down cars and helped to replace heavy gas bottles for vulnerable residents on his rounds. Stories of his kindness and community spirit have even gained him a large Facebook following. The time he spends supporting his customers is always greatly appreciated.
Green at Heart Award - an individual, school, business or community group who has made an extra effort to have a positive impact on the environment.
King’s Dam Project
This alternative education provider in Gillingham have an on-site horticultural area and poly-tunnel where they teach pupils how to grow and cook their own food. Their work educates children on the importance of caring for the natural world around them and maintaining the local environment.
Business in the Community Award - a local business that has led or supported community initiatives and values.
Sponsored by Big Sky Living.
Thurlton Community Shop
This small local shop is the hub of Thurlton. They have over 30 volunteers that work tirelessly to support their community. They recently set up a warm hub offering free hot drinks and Wi-Fi access for those in need. They also offer local writers and artists a space to sell and display their work. The Good Neighbourhood scheme which offers assistance for people unable to attend doctor’s or hospital appointments, is also run by the shop’s volunteers.
Community Group of the Year - a community group that has made a significant contribution to the residents of their local area.
Sponsored by UPP.
Star Throwers
Star Throwers, a charity based in Wymondham, is a crucial service for people affected by cancer, helping more than 250 people each year. They offer information and support completely free of charge to anyone that has been diagnosed with cancer, as well as their friends and family. The personalised services include therapeutic support, massage treatments, dietary and nutritional advice and much more.
Community Hero - a person who has made a positive impact on an individual or their community. Someone who deserves special recognition for their effort and commitment.
Sponsored by Clarion Housing.
Catherine Upton-Browning
Catherine has played a leading role in helping Ukrainian families in Diss and the surrounding area, going above and beyond to support those who have evacuated due to the war. She has organised coffee mornings and craft activities to help the displaced community stay connected and build new relationships.
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