Celebrating the best of Broadland

Now in its 12th year, the awards, organised by Broadland District Council and sponsored by Clarion Housing alongside a host of local businesses, recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers who make a real difference in their communities.

Cllr Caroline Karimi-Ghovanlou, Chair of Broadland District Council, said:

“These awards illuminate the extraordinary individuals and organisations whose quiet acts of service ripple through Broadland, transforming lives and uplifting communities. Their unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and remarkable resilience are the heartbeat of our district. It was a true honour to stand among them and celebrate the spirit that makes Broadland not just a place—but a community defined by kindness, strength, and hope.”

Awards were presented across ten categories, each highlighting the incredible impact of individuals and organisations across the district. The first award, Business in the Community, went to The Shoulder of Mutton in Strumpshaw, where Bob and Dani have transformed a village pub into a hub of connection and care.

Other highlights included Laura Wilkinson, winner of the Rising Star Award, whose work with Social Moments Enterprise has made a tangible difference in Broadland’s food pantries and youth programmes. Fiona Worner, founder of St Faiths Sunflowers, took home the Environmental Champion Award for her work revitalising green spaces and community spirit.

Go Paddle Norfolk, led by Katie, won the Healthy and Active Award for their inclusive and environmentally conscious approach, while the Connecting Communities Award went to The Black Dog Music Project, a charity using music to support mental health recovery.

The Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Gillian Alexander, whose 20+ years of service to local schools and Brownies has left a lasting legacy. Social Moments Enterprise was named Community Organisation of the Year and Penny Goodman received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of service in Buxton.

The Young Achiever Award, went to Ruby Everson, a young carer and advocate whose resilience and ambition to become a barrister inspired everyone in the room.

For more information about all our winners and how you can get involved next year, please visit Broadland Council’s website and search for Broadland Community Awards Winners.