Runnymede civic awards

Arts

Cultural Organisation of Year

Winner: Pride Hub

The pride hub offers a much-needed safe space for the LGBTQ+ community of Surrey. They have recently relocated to Egham and offer lots of free services including feminine hygiene products, workshops, events and signposting support. 

Young Musician of the Year

Winners: Abigail Shaw & Seren Stirling-Williams

Both Abigail & Seren originally took part in music lessons given by the Egham Band in School and subsequently joined the Thorpe Brass Club where they played the cornet.  They have since progressed quickly through the ranks and have now passed their Grade 3 music exams and are part of the Egham Youth Band, and they are that good that they even perform at some of the senior band engagements on occasions.

Arts Group of the Year

Winner: Spotlights 

Nikki Rutter runs Spotlights which is a community performing arts group. Nikki has run theatre groups for over 27 years and writes and choregraphs all shows around the needs of the individuals.  Spotlights has 22 adult performers who all have some form of learning or physical disability.  The aim of the group is to promote inclusion, learn valuable life skills and build confidence – focussing on what they can do, rather than what they can’t.  

Highly Commended: Susan Roberts Academy 

Susan Roberts has been helping disadvantaged children access performing arts training in Surrey for 27 years.  The Susan Roberts Academy team and community have been responsible for sparking lifelong passion for dance and performing arts amongst their members. Their emphasis on being a caring community makes them stand out from other dance schools making a huge difference to the lives of children involved.

Highly Commended: Runnymede Art Society

Runnymede Art Society is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025 and there are now over 50 members. They meet weekly for art sessions and put on 2 exhibitions a year. They are a welcoming group that also support residents with dementia and Ukrainian refuges, helping them to become part of a caring community.

Sports and Fitness Category

Sportsperson of the Year

Winner: Amanda Heath

Amanda is a World record holder for breaststroke events in the 65-69 age group in Masters swimming. In 2024 she won 4 events at the World Masters Aquatics Championships in Qatar, including 200 metre butterfly, in which she broke the European record. In the European Masters she won 7 gold medals. She is well known in the GB Masters swimming community, and in 2024 also participated in podcasts on training and competing to help support others coming up the ranks. 

Young Sportsperson of the Year

Winner: Emily Nicholas

Emily is the first rower from Sir William Perkins’ School to ever win a medal at the World Rowing U19 Championships. She did so during the Summer of 2024 in Canada as the youngest member of the GB women’s team, aged only 16, racing in the U19 Women’s Coxless Four.  Her commitment to the sport is exceptional, training ten sessions each week, and playing a leading role in the strong and inclusive atmosphere at the school’s Boat Club. 

Highly Commended: Adam Letras

Adam from Core Judo demonstrates outstanding personal sacrifice to Judo, his club and the wider community. He volunteers at his old junior school and club, in order to help inspire the next generation. His hard work has been rewarded placing 2nd in the British Championships and becoming part of the Great Britain cadet team. 

Highly Commended: Sophie Clark

Sophie competes at a high level in indoor and outdoor athletics.  She was selected to be part of the Berkshire County team for the South East regional Sportshall final and took home the gold medal in the 4-lap event. Sophie also plays football and has been an integral member of the Manorcroft United Juniors U15 Girls team for over 5 years.    

Highly Commended: Tiana Hall-Duffy

In Year 6 Tiana was told by doctors she would never be able to do sports again due to a severe ankle injury, however that didn’t stop her passion for football and now regularly attends the Chelsea FC training academy.  She has set up a girls football team in her school, is actively involved in many workshops including ‘no room for racism’ and ‘women empowerment’. Tiana also takes part in many other sports including rowing and badminton.

Sports Coach of the Year

Winner: Nick Ingham

Nick is a coach at Knowle Hill Tennis Club which now has a record level of 230 members, and much of this is due to the time and effort Nick puts in. Nick provides an excellent coaching programme and tennis camps during the holidays for juniors of all ages, and over the past few years has expanded the range of additional free activities. Nick has a natural ability to motivate and inspire all players, including the less sporty ones, and brings humour and fun to his sessions. 

Highly Commended: Ian Selley

Ian is an ex-professional Arsenal footballer and 5 years ago set up his academy (PPA) based at Abbey Rangers in Addlestone. PPA provides a centre of excellence for all age groups and players of any level of ability in a fun-filled environment. In his spare time, Ian volunteers at local schools to deliver coaching sessions and cares deeply about the local community.

Highly Commended: Kyle Francis

According to the members of Runnymede Raptors Basketball Club, Kyle is an excellent coach who is always supportive and motivates them to give their best at all times. Kyle always goes above and beyond despite having a hectic personal life and working full time too.

Health & Wellbeing Award

Winner: Rosie Williams-Taylor

At just 11 years old Rosie has tirelessly and selflessly raised awareness for mens mental health over the last few years since losing a close family friend to suicide. This year Rosie has been working non-stop on fundraising activities and attending awareness events all whilst starting her new secondary school. Rosie’s desire to help people and the imagination behind her events is admirable - there is something very powerful about a child letting adults know it is ok to talk. 

Highly Commended: Cheryl Richards & Emily Perrier

Cheryl and Emily play a key part in the Runnymede & Spelthorne Wellness Community. They both have impressive stories in their own wellness journeys that brought them together. Their focus is on real, relatable wellness and their vision for creating a safe space for everyone to share, learn, and grow. Whether it’s through physical fitness, mental wellness support, or creative activities they are making wellness accessible and engaging for everyone. 

Highly Commended: Tiny Terrapins Swim School

Tiny Terrapins Swim School  ensures that community is at the heart of everything they do.  They have launched a WhatsApp support group for new mums, a nappy & clothes swap bank, and social activities to meet new parents.  They have also conquered the barriers of single parenting by providing poolside childcare for those that need it.

Sports Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Pauline Carter  

Pauline manages the weekly Egham Constellations Assisted Swim Session which provides assistance to disabled people in the pool. She also organises transport, equipment and the club’s social events. Pauline has an immense heart and cares for people with a passion. Even with all her own health challenges, she will leave no stone unturned to help someone else and leads the group with a steady, secure and compassionate hand. 

Highly Commended: Sue Blesset

Sue is an invaluable asset to Chertsey Bowls Club, showing unwavering dedication to the club and its members, promoting inclusivity and attracting younger players. She has been the driving force behind several successful fundraising campaigns that have enabled the club to thrive. Sue's commitment extends to the upkeep of the facilities and has worked closely with the Council, local volunteers, and members to maintain the clubhouse, bowling green and surrounding gardens to a high standard. 

Sports Club of the Year

Winner: Manorcroft United Football Club

Manorcroft is a football club for boys and girls aged from 5 to 18, and adults, with 28 league registered teams. In 2024 they were awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service - equivalent to an MBE. 
The club teaches its 300 junior members the importance of teamwork, self-belief, determination and leadership. Their ethos, ‘Unite, Develop, Progress’ runs through everything the club does.

Highly Commended: Core Judo  

Core Judo is a unique and amazing example of a community-focused organisation that is committed to fostering inclusivity and accessibility for the entire community. They are not just a Judo club; they are a vibrant hub that uses the power of sport to strengthen community bonds and break down barriers.

Highly Commended: Runnymede Raptors Basketball Club

Runnymede Raptors are growing year on year and currently have 10 teams & opportunities for children & adults to learn & play within the sport.  Last year they won the playoff championships, and have this year launched girls basketball which is thriving.  Raptors is a club like no other - everybody feels valued, included, and respected regardless of race, ethnicity and ability. 

Community

Environment & Sustainability Award

Winner: Richard Emmett

Richard volunteers as a leader and mentor at the Gardening and Bee Keeping Clubs at The Hub. His passion for beekeeping has inspired and educated countless families, children, and community members. He has created a space where people can learn about the vital role bees play in our ecosystem and his engaging approach has made learning about beekeeping and conservation both accessible and enjoyable. By helping schools procure and set up their own hives, Richard provides children with invaluable hands-on learning experiences, fostering a lifelong appreciation for these endangered pollinators and the importance of preserving them.

Highly Commended: Chandos Road Toad Patrol

The Toad Patrol is a group of volunteers who help toads safely migrate across local roads to their breeding ponds. During the migration they are at risk of being killed by cars or people on the roads, so the volunteers go out with buckets and torches in the wet cold February evenings to collect them and take them safely to the pond. In 2024 over 500 adult toads and countless toadlets were moved and saved.

Highly Commended: Runnymede Junior Rangers

Overseen by rangers from the National Trust, the Runnymede Junior Rangers programme has seen 20 young people from the local area giving up their Sundays to engage in environmental initiatives. They have engaged in tree planting, introducing some of Surrey's rarest species into new areas, the protection and enhancement of ponds which are home to valuable amphibian populations, and the creation of other microhabitats to benefit a wide range of plants and animals. They work in all weathers and deliver environmental improvements that will benefit people and wildlife across Runnymede.

Making a Difference Award

Winner: Jonathan Fisher

Jonathan is a member of Surrey Coalition of Disabled People and has no sight… yet he constantly uses his time and lived experience to make a difference for other people and puts his heart and soul into everything he does. He's Chair of the Talking Newspaper, an organisation that helps local people with low or no sight to access the local news.  He’s an active member of Surrey Vision Action Group and this year campaigned against floating bus stops at No.10.  He is also a member of the Independent Advisory Group for Surrey Police and River Thames Scheme, ensuring that everything is accessible to all.

Highly Commended: Chrissy McCourts

Chrissy runs a charity called The Hope Hub which is for girls aged 12-17 to attend weekly meetings to discuss lots of relevant topics.  She is a very busy lady but still makes time for vulnerable teens in order to make a real difference in their lives.  In addition to the meetings, she also organises trips such as theatre visits, giving them life experiences. The Hope Hub is an invaluable and supportive club which is there for young women during a time in their lives that can be very tricky for some.

Highly Commended: Valerie Verity

Valerine is loved by many in Virginia Water for her community engagement and passion for making a difference. 

During 2024 Valerie set about raising the required funds to convert a phone box into a defibrillator site. The phone box has now been restored to its former glory and is capable of saving lives. Valerie is also responsible for the annual Village Christmas Tree and light switch-on event… the amount of time and dedication Valerie gives to make Virginia Water sparkle (not just at Christmas) is admirable. 

Young Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Holme Farm Young Volunteers, Thomas Lane, Matthew Lane & Megan Grummett 

Thomas, Matthew and Megan have been regular volunteers at Holme Farm helping with the improvement of the outdoor site. They carry out tasks with real understanding and care - for them it is not just work, but learning and developing a genuine and ongoing bond with the land.  They act as role models and leaders for newer volunteers. During 2024, they sowed seeds to encourage mixed trees which are native to Surrey and created a pond which attracts different types of insects and natural life. They have become true guardians of this piece of Runnymede land.

Highly Commended: Cameron Maddison-Butcher

Cameron is a volunteer with the 1st/4th Addlestone Spinney Hill Beaver Colony and has consistently demonstrated an outstanding commitment and makes significant contributions through his dedication and selfless service. His positive attitude is infectious and he routinely goes above and beyond… organising fun games, teaching new skills, and helping to set up community events - an inspiring example for others.

Highly Commended: Charlie Smyth

Charlie is an exceptional Young Leader with 1st Virginia Water Beavers. He consistently demonstrates remarkable dedication, passion, responsibility and generally going above and beyond in everything that he does. The judges were impressed with his service to the colony combined with his ability to communicate with young people in a calm and collective way.

Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Chrissie Webster

Chrissie is a volunteer at Rivermede Court Care Home where she shares her creative ideas for art with the residents. She also supports with residents trips out, giving her time freely and willingly – all she ever wants is to see the residents happy and enjoying themselves. Chrissie has helped with many fundraising events in the Egham community, including setting up and manning stalls. And on top of all that she is also the resident Rivermede hairdresser and manicurist! Chrissie is loved by all the residents and a true shining star. 

Highly Commended: Annie Moore

Annie has been described as dedicated, highly skilled, valued and an immensely hardworking volunteer at Holme Farm. She volunteers 5 days a week, managing the allotment and a team of over 20 gardeners to assist in growing vegetables for the benefit of the community and supplying both community kitchens and an on-site market stall. Annie also supports several people with health issues ensuring they are involved, and works with groups such as Halow and Meath School on the allotment. 

Highly Commended: Catherine Foster

Catherine is the heart and soul of the Thursday Club, a community initiative that provides free and creative educational activities for children in one of the borough’s most deprived areas. She ensures that every child has a safe and welcoming space where they can explore new activities, develop life skills and build confidence. Catherine’s passion for the community and her remarkable work with The Thursday Club has a lasting impact on the children and families she serves.

Volunteer Group of the Year

Winner: Runnymede Games Club

The Games Club provides a social space to meet and interact whilst playing games. Their aim is to reduce isolation and loneliness in the community. The club has gone from strength to strength and now hosts meetings 50 weeks of the year for nearly 50 people. They also facilitate trips out across the borough and run monthly and holiday sessions for children.  The team who run it are passionate about the benefits it delivers, making sure the club is always properly staffed and providing valuable support to each other. 

Highly Commended: Hope Café at St John’s Church, Egham

The Hope Café is a remarkable organisation that has gone above and beyond to improve lives, foster connections, and cultivate a positive community spirit. By offering free, delicious lunches, they address a vital need while creating a welcoming space for all. Their dedication to supporting Ukrainian refugees has been especially inspiring… hosting events and bringing individuals together to lift their spirits during challenging times. 

Highly Commended: Royal Holloway Tea Parties Project

The Tea Parties project is a student-led initiative organised by undergraduate students at Royal Holloway University. The goal of the Tea Parties project is to combat loneliness and isolation in the local community by bringing together elderly local residents and students. They do this by hosting free monthly tea parties at the Englefield Green Village Centre, providing guests with travel to and from the centre as well as much tea, coffee and cake as they like. 

Service to Community - Individual

Winner: Christine Leach

Christine has been the driving force behind Chertsey & Addlestone Good Neighbours group for over 22 years. The group arrange to drive and accompany clients to medical appointments and day centres, take them shopping or doing it for them if needed, or just dropping round for coffee to support elderly residents who are lonely and isolated.  The demand for these services has grown dramatically, and the number of jobs they undertake has increased more than 5 fold in past five years, to nearly 6000 in 2024.  It is Christine’s dedication, hard work, energy and ability to inspire volunteers that has enabled the group to grow from the very small, to the significant local charity it now is.

Highly Commended: Mrs Chambers - The Lollipop Lady

Mrs Chambers is the "Lollipop Lady" outside St Annes School in Chertsey.  She has been seeing children safely across the road to and from school for over 30 years! Come rain or shine she is always there with her High Vis Coat and STOP sign to ensure the safety of all the parents and children who have to cross the Free Prae Road to attend School. This is quite a remarkable achievement, and all the parents and children who have to cross the road twice a day are very grateful for her service.

Highly Commended: Monica Kitchenside

Monica has been volunteering at Addlestone Community Centre for over 40 years. She acts as a Steward every week and also helps out at events such as the Craft Fairs, Older Residents' Tea Parties and the regular Brass Band Concerts. Monica also gives up her Christmas every year to help run the Salvation Army Christmas Lunch which takes several days of preparation and provides a free community event for those in need in Addlestone.

Service to Community - Organisation

Winner: White Lodge Centre

White Lodge provides services that enable those with a range of disabilities, their families and carers to lead fulfilling lives. Their vision is "a world which is inclusive to all, regardless of ability" and currently support over 1,200 individuals.  They provide many services including physiotherapy, speech and language support, a specialist nursery, respite care and lots of fun activities.

The delivery of their services is dependent on raising very substantial amounts of money each and every year and through their wonderful dedicated staff and volunteers they deliver much needed support and care to some of the most disadvantaged members of our society.

Highly Commended: County Care Independent Living - Addlestone Project Café & Enterprise

Project cafe in Addlestone is part of the County care Group. A specialist provider supporting young adults with learning disabilities and autism. They promote independence and teach life skills that are transferable into the community. Those attending are taught in the Project Café, which is open to the public which enables them to practice their skills. This cafe is fast becoming a hub and safe place for members of the Addlestone community.  

Highly Commended: St John’s Community Fridge Volunteers

The Community Fridge volunteers are a fantastic team who dedicated nearly 5500 hours to help collect, sort and redistribute 24 tonnes of food that could have been wasted during 2024. They helped to convert some of the vegetable waste to serve 753 soups and provided food to over 5000 people who use their services. They support many initiatives at the church including repair cafes, free markets, seed and plant swaps and eco-fayres.

Special Recognition Award

James Acab

James is a pupil at St. Anne's Catholic Primary School who nominated him for this award.  In June 2024, he heroically responded to his dad going into cardiac arrest at the family home. Despite being understandably terrified, James’ alertness, logical thinking and fast response saved his dad's life! He unfortunately witnessed his Dad becoming unresponsive, but he acted courageously until Paramedics arrived. James knew from then on, that Dad was in good hands. 
After a period in intensive care, fast forward to today and Dad continues to recuperate at home. The family have had to make some considerable adjustments to their lives but never once has James complained, he carries on being a hero to Dad and a wonderful, loving support to mum. 

Special Recognition Award

Sharon Vincent

Sharon was nominated for a ‘Service to the Community’ award but sadly passed away recently after the nomination had been made.  Therefore, we would like to recognise everything Sharon did for the community this evening with this Special Recognition Award.  Sharon joined the Executive Committee of Elmbridge, Runnymede and Spelthorne Talking newspaper in 2017. Her radiant personality provided encouragement to new and existing listeners, and as many of the listeners are well into advancing years Sharon patiently resolved problems with care at all times. 

Sharon also volunteered with the Egham Constellations and her lived experience of life-long pain helped many others in a similar situation to enjoy regular exercise. Whenever a new member joined Sharon was always banishing their fears and building friendly relationships dispersing any fears of meeting new strangers. 

Despite her own mobility problems and increasing medical issues, Sharon could always raise a smile and a cheery disposition and put many fully able-bodied adults to shame and will be sadly missed.

Mayor’s Special Recognition Award - Personally selected by the Mayor of Runnymede, Cllr Elaine Gill.

Ian & Carol Hughes

Ian and Carol have been described as true community heroes and are involved in a volunteering capacity across many organisations across the borough.  They were nominated by White Lodge where their contribution was described as simply staggering, including:

• Taking a leading role in the fundraising volunteer group, setting up stands and engaging with members of the public to raise awareness and fundraise. 
• Hosting and helping to organise numerous corporate volunteering days 
• Ian is the EBay sales volunteer fundraiser. He takes donations, researches them, re-furbishes them and sells the items - raising over £2,000 to date.
• In total they have donated nearly 2000 hours of voluntary service to White Lodge alone.

However, on top of that they also volunteer at:

• Care in Egham and District 
• Runnymede Food Bank 
• Princess Alice Hospice 
• Egham Royal Show
• NHS at St Peter’s Hospital and Healthwatch Surrey

What makes them so special is their positive and infectious energy. They are solution focused, generous with their time and helpful to others. They are the ultimate team players and inspire others to come on board too.  We are lucky to have them as part of the Community of Runnymede.

Sports and fitness awards

Health & Wellbeing Award

Winner: Gillian Rae  

Gillian runs Agein’ with Attitude classes that enable older residents to keep fit and improve their balance and strength. They have reported improvements in their walking and pains from osteo-arthritis, whilst also enjoying the chance to socialise with others. 

Sports Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Wendy Dobson

Wendy is a volunteer at Addlestone Canoe Club and has been a driving force behind bringing visibility of the sport to as many people as possible in Runnymede. In addition to her role as Head Coach, she is also an active member of the club committee and organises the 'come and try it' days. She also initiated the river clean up days which involve general litter picking and the removal of non-native invasive plant species.

Highly Commended: Terry Francis

Terry is the groundskeeper at Runnymede Rockets BMX club and gives up his Saturdays to keep the grounds looking tidy and safe for everyone who uses the track. He brings a smile to the day and is well loved by everyone (parents and kids alike) at the club and track.

Highly Commended: Christopher Heighes

After ‘Woking Mind’ could no longer support the ‘Walking for Health’ project for mental and physical health, Chris liaised closely with both Runnymede and Woking Councils to do everything he could to keep the group running. Despite his own health problems Chris plans walks and carries out a full recce in advance to ensure they are accessible and safe for all.

Coach of the Year

Winner: Aaron Turner

Aaron coaches a large number of children and adults at Core Judo, when one member suffered a significant injury Aaron went above and beyond to ensure their return to competition. They are now back to winning medals at national and international competitions and have recently been called up to the England squad.

Highly Commended: Kyle Francis

Kyle was nominated for his amazing leadership and dedication to Runnymede Raptors Basketball Club, dedicating a lot of his time to coach & support the kids. Parents said that their kids really enjoy playing for the raptors and have even been given the opportunity to play at a national league level.

Sportsperson of the Year

Winner: Greg Cheeseman

Greg is a member of Chertsey Runners and received 15 nominations from club members. Despite suffering a heart attack while running a few years ago he has since gone from strength to strength and progressed from half marathons in 2022 to ultra marathons in 2023. Greg is very supportive to new runners, and members who can’t run due to injuries.

Highly Commended: Amanda Heath

In October 2023 Amanda achieved a personal triumph beating her own World Record in the Female 100m breaststroke for her age group. Amanda swam a phenomenal 1:27:95, beating her old time of 1:28:03. 

Young Sportsperson of the Year

Winner: Niamh Hanratty

Despite having many health conditions, Niamh was nominated for her contributions to both swimming and rugby. Her achievements during 2023 in both sports really impressed the judges. Highlights include winning ‘best girl’ in her age group at her swimming club and competing in the Surrey Youth Games for Runnymede at Touch Rugby.

Highly Commended: Tiana Duffy-Hall

Tiana was nominated for her love of all sports including netball, football and basketball. She enjoys attending multiple sports clubs and signed up to football camps after football camps, she even saves up her own money for new shoes for the specific sports. Tiana always remains focussed and competitive whilst keeping a positive mindset and ignoring any negativity.

Sports Club of the Year

Winner: Abbey Rangers

In 2023 Abbey Rangers relaunched their Pan Disability Team which is part of the Club's philosophy for inclusivity in the community and providing football-for-all. There are also 45 other teams at the Club from Mini Rangers and Wildcats through to adult teams with over 650 players in total. The Club has built a great relationship with local schools and helps by providing services and facilities free of charge.

Highly Commended: Runnymede Raptors

Parents felt that the work, time and effort the coaches put in to make Runnymede Raptors a successful club goes beyond what would normally be expected. The care of the players from all backgrounds is second to none. Raptors have made a huge impact on kids lives, it gives them something to look forward to,

Highly Commended: Egham Bowls Club

Egham Bowls Club has both an indoor and an outdoor section, both of which have enjoyed enormous success this year. In 2023 the men's indoor senior team won the Denny Cup, which is a national knock out competition and is equivalent to winning the FA cup in the bowls world. The outdoors ladies senior team made it to the final of the Top Club at the national championships.

Arts

Young creative of the year

Winner: Serenna Copsey

The judges were impressed by the quality of Serenna’s work, in particular her portrait in oils of the Retiring Headteacher at her school. Such was the quality of her work the GCSE exam board used her coursework to show teachers across the country as an example of excellence.

Highly Commended: Lacey Penfold

Judges were impressed with her hard work and determination during the drawing of the Van Gogh Chair which she recently won an art competition for.

Arts Group of the Year

Winner: Egham Brass Band Youth Project

The Egham Brass Band Youth Project is entirely staffed by volunteers who teach five different classes across three schools in the borough. Their recent Childrens Christmas Concert saw over 200 brass musicians playing Jingle Bells!

Highly Commended: Runnymede Art Society

Who offer opportunities to Students from Royal Holloway to set up exhibitions which incluse displays of paintings which keep Egham Highstreet looking lively.

Highly Commended: Thorpe Players

During 2023 they have put on two productions. They pride themselves on keeping ticket prices low to keep theatre accessible to all. They also take park in many community events.

Community

Environment & Sustainability Award

Winner: Rima Chai

Rima has led the set up and operation of a community fridge in Egham in order to save fresh food from going to waste. The Community Fridge is open to everyone, regardless of means and is not a food bank or a solution to food poverty but encourages people to live more sustainably. By the end of November 2023 the community fridge prevented 10,000kg of food from being wasted. It is also an integral part of the annual Eco-Fair in Egham which encourages the community to create green actions that have a positive impact.

Making a Difference Award

Winner: Robert Dixon

Robert has set up ‘Lions in the Camp’ which is an amazing fitness and boxing facility for young kids to build their self-esteem and confidence and keep them off the streets. He was described as an inspiration and very driven and focused to help others. Robert fundraises for various charities and is a massive advocate for mental health.

Highly Commended: David Breakwell

David is the Group Scout Leader of 2nd New Haw Scout Group, in addition to this he is also the District Explorer Scout Commissioner. Next year 2nd New Haw Scout Group will celebrate 50 years and David has been a huge part of this and has had an impact on hundreds of young people across the years.

Young Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Edith Schofield

Edith was nominated for her role as an Explorer Young Leader for 1st Chertsey Bourne Beavers. In April 2023, Edith organised a fundraiser for her Surrey Scout Expedition to Belgium, offering a low-cost holiday club. Edith planned the whole programme and worked incredibly hard to deliver an amazing day. Edith is amazing at annual camp and helps nervous kids to settle in, keeps them busy, singing and smiling all day, which is really important for those who are away from home for the first time.

Highly Commended: Hector Rutter

Hector was nominated for his role as an Explorer Young Leader for 1st Chertsey Bourne Beavers. Hector has fantastic patience, and he shines in small group work. He is very good at explaining tasks at the pace that each young person needs. He is an extremely kind young leader, especially attuned to young people who need a little extra support. If there has been a minor bump or disagreement you will see Hector quietly dealing with the situation entirely appropriately and with a quick and happy resolution.

Highly Commended: Rosie Williams-Taylor

Rosie has been raising money on behalf of Andy’s Man Club which is a Men’s Mental Health charity after she lost her family friend. Rosie dedicates her time to help fundraise to help local people have a place to go to feel safe and be able to talk to others that may be struggling with their mental health. In 2023 Rosie has raised a grand total of £3,458 for Andy’s Man Club.

Volunteer of the Year

Winner: Carol Edmondson

Carol leads the Loaves & Fishes Lunch Project at St Paul’s Church in Addlestone, which was created to help those struggling with food poverty. Free healthy lunches are given unconditionally to all who would like one during holiday periods. During 2023, an amazing 4,958 lunches were given out and Carol does a fantastic job co-ordinating the whole project involving all the other wonderful volunteers.

Highly Commended: Leigh Brook

Leigh setup New Haw litter pickers just over a year ago and has worked relentlessly on social media and putting leaflets through doors. Her hard work has resulted in many volunteers attending litter picks in New Haw and Woodham. Volunteers range from the young to elderly and it has created such a community spirit, that they are now seeing what else they can do to help out locally.

Highly Commended: Brian Bainbridge

Brian is part of the New Haw Litter Pickers and has helped the group go from strength to strength. He goes above and beyond to support the group in many ways. He attends every litter pick and helps with the organisation before, during and after.  

Volunteer Group of the Year

Winner: The Teaboat Project

The Teaboat Project is a community enterprise in a wonderful river setting between Staines Bridge and River Park Avenue. It has a great group of volunteers who are on site twice a week maintaining the riverside site and serving refreshments from the café. Sadly, the founder Ari Zoides passed away in May 2022, however the trustees and volunteers have worked in all weathers throughout 2023 to carry out his vision to create a safe space along the river which is accessible to all.

Highly Commended: Holme Farm

Holme Farm came from, and is entirely delivered by, volunteers from within the community. In the last 18 months Holme Farm has developed from a derelict building unused for more than 30 years on 8 acres of untended land, to a biodiverse area which aims to improve the physical and mental health of our community by providing a hub that is open to all.

Highly Commended: Chertsey & Addlestone Good Neighbours

Chertsey & Addlestone Good Neighbours was nominated by one of our residents whose Dad receives support from the group. They arrange to pick him up and take him to his local community group at Manor Farm, to ensure he continues to maintain a social life. Often plans can change at short notice which means they have to work quickly and efficiently without any complaints.

Service to Community – Organisation

Winner: Citizen’s Advice Runnymede & Spelthorne

This year Citizen’s Advice have dealt with their highest ever number of clients and issues - supporting 6,462 clients with a total of 18,493 issues. With the largest cost of living crisis for decades there has never been a more challenging time for Citizens Advice, both in terms of the demand they are experiencing, and the challenges of having enough resources to deliver their current level of service.

Highly Commended: The Village Centre

The Village Centre is a community centre and café in Englefield Green providing a number of outreach projects. The community fridge and Foodbank continuously supply, cook and deliver food to vulnerable residents. The baby basics project provides new parents with access to equipment for their newborns and the child contact centre helps parents and children, who would not otherwise be able to see each other unsupervised, spend time together.

Highly Commended: Revive Café at Beacon Church

Revive Café continues to provide a wonderful location which has allowed Ukrainians across Runnymede to meet and access support in a welcoming community environment. Additionally, their involvement with wider groups such as Runnymede Foodbank, Just a Helping Hand and the Beacon Church, has also been key to the success of the drop-ins with new arrivals able to readily access foodbank vouchers, some clothing basics and wider community events hosted by the Beacon Church.

Service to Community – Individual

Winner: Frances Dyble-Goode

In 2010 Frances set up Runnymede Dementia Carers Support group where a carer and the sufferer could meet others in a similar situation and share experiences and information over a cup of tea and a cake. She has been involved in the support of people with dementia and their carers in Runnymede and surrounding areas for over 35 years now. These are provided at no cost to those attending, and carers are never excluded even after the sufferer is no longer being cared for at home or has passed away. 

Highly Commended: Jill Reynolds

Jill has been the Chair and driving force of the Egham United Charity. Her work has been voluntary and unpaid and she is due to stand down this year, but during 2023 she showed no let up in her devotion despite all the challenges. Jill’s in-depth knowledge of the local community and its many supporters has helped in the targeting of various local services in such areas as Youth support, and poverty alleviation.

Jenny Wardill

Jenny is integral to the success of the drop in sessions supporting Ukrainians at Revive in Chertsey, not only offering practical support issuing foodbank vouchers but also taking an active interest in the individuals who attended and proactively looking for other ways she could support them. She always offers a warm welcome and emotional as well as practical support.

Special Recognition Award

Winner: Glen Edwards

Glen is 65 years old and still working 12 hrs a day operating a tower crane on a construction site. In November 2023 a horrific fire broke out on the site in Reading where Glen was working. Amidst the chaos and under immense pressure Glen kept his calm, operating the crane to accomplish the safe rescue of a co-worker who was trapped between the fire and the high rise buildings edge. Thanks to Glen, his co-worker, who is married with young children, got to leave site and will live to tell the tale.

Well done to everyone.

Hope to see you again next year.

Young Sportsperson of the Year

Winner - Emily Bowles-Trow
Emily is a committed junior member of the Addlestone Canoe Club and trains 5-6 times a week all year round.  During 2022 she won a medal at the National Championship Sprint events in Nottingham and was selected to represent Great Britain at the Brandenburg International Regatta in Germany.  She is also the youngest GB athlete to be selected to participate in the Olympic Hopes Regatta.  On top of her amazing achievements the judges were impressed that she also selflessly gives up her time to volunteer at the club to coach and support younger members.

Highly Commended - Jamal Jabangwe
Jamal plays rugby for Vandals Rugby Club and was voted Player of the Season by his fellow players.  He impressed the judges by never missing a match or training session no matter what challenges life throws at him.

Highly Commended - Esme Westmoreland
Esme is part of Hellcats Cheerleading club and is an inspiration after contracting meningitis when she was just 1 years old and lost the ability to walk and became deaf in one ear. She has overcome her challenges to become part of the medal winning cheerleading competition squad.

Coach of the Year

Winner - Kyle Francis, Runnymede Basketball
Kyle from Runnymede Raptors Basketball Club certainly receives the award for the most nominations received… 24 in total.  However, it wasn’t just the number of nominations that impressed the judges, it was everything that had been said about him.  Kyle is obviously a very much loved and respected coach who makes everyone feel welcome and part of the team from the moment they arrive. Kyle ensures that the club is highly inclusive and is brilliant with neurodiverse children and parents are very impressed with how much confidence and discipline Kyle has given to their children.

Highly Commended - Neil Leahy, Addlestone Canoe Club
Neil took over as Head Coach at Addlestone Canoe Club during the pandemic and has since set a new standard when it comes to organising the training and development of coaches which has been a massive benefit to the club and it’s members.

Highly Commended - Aaron Turner, Core Judo
Aaron received so many compliments from parents who all felt he is a fantastic coach, who leads by example and gets the best of all his students and is an outstanding role model for the sport of Judo. 

Changing Lives Award

Winner - Nick & Carol Reeves, Addlestone Canoe Club
Our worthy winners of the Changing Lives Award are Nick & Carol Reeves from Addlestone Canoe Club.  Whilst originally nominated for Club of the Year the judges decided that although a worthy contender in that category, Nick & Carol were genuinely changing lives and should be recognised as such.  In addition to the wonderful achievements they have accomplished as a club they also undertake many canal clean up campaign and are proactively working with local families, youth groups and schools to provide training on water safety and encouraging residents to get involved, so they are our very deserving winners of the Changing Lives Award.

Club of the Year

Winner - Core Judo
Core Judo is the brainchild of Jonathan Purssey, who purchased the dilapidated Thorpe Green Sports Club back in 2018 and has worked tirelessly despite many challenges to finally open the new facility last year. Core Judo have seen members representing Team GB at the Youth Olympics and winning medals at National level. They run a successful scholarship programme which supports over 30 children by providing them with free judo tuition and although some members compete at the highest level, the main focus is for children to have fun, be disciplined and respectful.  The club has become an integral part of the community and Jonathan together with a Company called Belron provides fresh food to his Friday Judo class. A true inspiration and worthy winner of Club of the Year.

Highly Commended - Manorcroft United
Manorcroft United have become the heart of the community in Englefield Green West. The judges were impressed with the family-orientated club that has made such a difference to the lives of many of our residents.

Highly Commended - Addlestone Bowls Club
At a time when the sport of lawn bowls in crisis, the Addlestone Bowls club is bucking the trend has gone from 5 to over 100 members in just 18 months and they also won Bowls England ‘Story of the Year’ Award and has really made it’s mark in the local community.

Outstanding Sports Personality Award

Winner - Hannah Russell OBE
After dedicating 12 years to Paralympic sport and British Swimming, Hannah retired in the summer after winning 4 medals at the World Championships in Madeira, followed by a silver at the Commonwealth Games.  She is now teaching at a local Primary School and was awarded an OBE for services to swimming in June, so we are very honoured to have her here with us this evening to receive the Runnymede Outstanding Sports Personality Award.

Community Writer of the Year

Winner - Mary Hammond
Mary is the Editor of the Community Life magazines which cover local news and promotes activities and local organisations.  To people in our community these magazines provide a great service to our residents to keep them informed of everything going on. As Mary was nominated in both ‘Service to the Community’ and ‘Writer of the Year’ categories we decided to create a unique award for her… Community Writer of the Year.

Young Artist of the Year

Winner - Alex Zhurba
Alex arrived in the UK after fleeing from the war in his home country of Ukraine.  He created an exhibition of artwork which chronicled the first 30 days of his experience of war.  His exhibition not only has helped to raise awareness, but he also sells his artwork with all profits going to Ukraine charity providing prosthetics for children who have been injured in the conflict.

Highly Commended - Victor Campos-Olcina
Victor impressed the judges his amazing GCSE Lord of the Rings art project and in the words of his teacher, Victor is a humble young man and a complete unsung hero.

Highly Commended - Tippi Tidbury
Tippi is obviously a very talented artist and the judges were impressed with her A level artwork pieces and her teachers comments about how caring and supportive she is to other students whilst remaining humble.

Young Performer of the Year

Winner - Lorna Chinyani
Lorna was nominated by one of her teachers, and the judges were impressed not only her achievements which include taking the lead role in many school productions and singing in school choirs, but also the fact that she is an inspiration to the younger students in the school, which has had a profound impact on the school community and is a wonderful ambassador for Salesian School.

Highly Commended - Olivia Baughan
Olivia has worked extremely hard over the last year and was asked to be part of her dance school competition team and since she has gone from strength to strength. This year her dance team have even been asked to dance at the London Coliseum and Disney Paris!

Arts Group of the Year

Winner - The Chertsey Pantomime
The Chertsey Panto started off 11 years ago as a one-off performance for the cast’s friends and family but over the years have blossomed into a hotly anticipated annual fixture in Runnymede.  The proceeds from their sell out shows have raised well over £50,000 for Woking & Sam Beare Hospice and they are now aiming for £100,000.  Every year the panto grows bigger and better so if you haven’t yet been, don’t miss out next year as it is highly recommended night out.

Highly Commended - The Thorpe Players
The Thorpe Players have been at the heart of the community for over 70 years and the judges were very impressed not only with the amount of productions and events they host but also the friendly atmosphere of the group.

Highly Commended - Pond-Grainger Performing Arts
Pond-Grainger Performing Arts have a very special place in the Mayor’s heart after their stunning performance at her Christmas Charity event.  The talent developed within the faculty is exceptional and they have even performed at Disneyland Paris.

Services to Runnymede Council Tenants

Winner - Jenny Hill
Jenny was actually nominated for a Service to Community award by our Head of Housing Services but the judges felt that she should be recognised with something more appropriate and therefore we are honoured to present Jenny with a special Services to Council Tenants award.  Jenni has been representing the interests and views of the our council tenants at both a local and national level for over 20 years, and we are delighted to reward and recognise her years of service to the residents of Runnymede this evening.

Environmentalist & Climate Change

Winner - Hare Hill Open Space Volunteers
Kathy & David Miller started The Hare Hill Open Space Volunteers over 15 years ago with the aim to improve the condition of this large and diverse woodland.  These days they have a group of volunteers who meet up most Sundays to help action the management plan drawn up by Surrey Wildlife Trust.  Their tasks include removing invasive plants, clearing ditches, distributing woodchips and clearing litter… there is no task they won’t tackle and provide an invaluable service to the community.

Highly Commended - Andi Roy
Andi was nominated for all the volunteering work he does at Holme Farm. The judges wanted to recognise his dedication and enthusiasm for improving the biodiversity, developing habitats for wildlife and maintaining a healthy ecology on the local site.

Highly Commended - The Rubbish Doctors
The Rubbish Doctors were set up by Dr David North-Coombes after being appalled at how much litter people leave behind. So he and 2 other retired GP’s started going out and clearing rubbish around Ottershaw which has made a huge difference to the area.

Triumph Over Adversity Award

Winner - Louise McGarr
In June 2020 Louise’s husband Paul literally dropped down dead in her arms after suffering a cardiac arrest.  Fortunately, although his heart stopped for nearly an hour Paul was part of the 2% of people who survive a cardiac arrest outside of hospital.  As the majority of people would not survive this Louise turned this life changing event into an opportunity to fundraise in order to raise money for a defibrillator, which has now been installed at the Beehive Pub in Englefield Green. Louise continues to fundraise and raise awareness of the vital need for public access to defibrillators.

Highly Commended - Brent Oba
Brent is a member of Core Judo club and whilst recovering from major surgery he continued to be a mentor for younger judo participants and children with special needs.  After 7 months rehab he was back training and competing whilst studying for his GCSE’s.

Highly Commended - Philip Roszkowski
Philip has a number of issues that can make life difficult for him in school but despite his personal obstacles Philip has an admirable attitude to learning and puts an amazing amount of effort into his lessons and impressed the judges with his commitment to his studies despite his challenges.

Young Volunteer of the Year

Winner - Rosie Williams-Taylor
Sadly in 2021 Rosie and her family lost a close family friend to suicide, so Rosie (who was only 8 at the time) decided she wanted to do something so no one else had to have a sad brain, and created the ‘Rosie Cares’ campaign and started fundraising for mental health charities including Mind, Calm and Andy’s Man Club.  In the last year Rosie has raised £1175 through various events including colouring competitions, sponsored walks, raffles, cake sales which really impressed the judges.

Winner - David Playfoot
After seeking support himself from the Eikon Charity, David realised that there many more people out there like him who were struggling and experiencing tough situations and wanted to help them.  So, at age 14 David became a volunteer with Eikon, which he still continues to this day.  In addition, he is now a volunteer mentor at Fullbrook School and also volunteers fulfilling many different roles with the Scouts. The judges were impressed how David had overcome significant challenges in his own life and used his own experiences to help others feel valued, encouraged and hopeful.

Volunteer Group of the Year

Winner - HeBrews
HeBrews community café at St Paul’s Church in Addlestone is run by a team of volunteers. Their ethos is to stop food going to landfill whilst providing the community with meals made from surplus food for minimal or zero cost.  In addition to the café, they also make food available to the community from their Surplus Shed and Surplus Shelves services which mean people can collect what they need in return for a donation if they can. They also run a school holidays lunch project with an impressive 2538 lunches given out to local children. The judges were impressed by the dedication and passion of the team which makes everyone feel welcome and safe and fully deserve this recognition.

Highly Commended - Revive Café
As part of the Beacon Church, the team at the Revive Café didn’t hesitate in saying yes when they were asked to host the weekly drop-in sessions for Ukrainian refugees on top of the support they were already providing to Runnymede Foodbank, Just a Helping Hand and the Beacon Church.

Highly Commended - Egham Constellations
The team of 10 volunteers at Egham Constellations meet weekly to provide assisted swimming sessions to people with disabilities or mobility challenges.  The team create a fun atmosphere as they help with changing the swimmers, encouraging them in the pool and keeping them safe in the water.

Volunteer of the Year

Winner - Oksana Belcher
Oksana went to the Voluntary Support office just after the start of the conflict in Ukraine to see if there were any opportunities to support those affected by the conflict.  Originally from Ukraine herself she was keen to offer translation services.  She has always been on hand during the drop in sessions making everyone feel welcome and comfortable.  She set up whatsapp support groups and provided personal support for many Ukrainians and helped them build a new community for those who were displaced.  The judges loved the fact she has given her time so freely whilst continuing to help her own family back in Ukraine.

Highly Commended - Naomi Barrett
Naomi impressed the judges by setting up and running the Chertsey Clean Up which has had such a big impact on the community.  She has kept both adults and children motivated to change the way Chertsey looks and how they feel about the environment.

Highly Commended - Arlene Bansal
Arlene has been instrumental in raising tens of thousands of pounds for the local community in Virginia Water whilst bringing people together in the process.  She is a pillar of the community and it would take us all evening to list out all of her achievements.

Service to the Community - Individuals

Winner - Dennis Brown
Dennis was described in his nomination as the volunteers volunteer and the judges thought that summed him up perfectly.  He has been involved with the Egham Band for over 50 years and most recently creating a Youth Band which reaches into local schools to teach over 300 students how to play brass instruments. Dennis is also involved with helping to run the Egham Royal Show and is a keen advocate of town twinning, and fostering relationships with our town twin Berglish Gladbach in Germany.  The judges had no hesitation in awarding Dennis with a Service to Community award, very well deserved.

Highly Commended - Christine Leach
Christine is the driving force behind Chertsey & Addlestone Good Neighbours who provide transport and support to people in need, often the elderly. Her strong leadership and problem solving skills enabled her to successfully manage a 4 fold increase in transport requests in the Borough.

Highly Commended - Clive Husselbury
Clive has been recognised for his long term commitment to volunteering roles in the borough including chairing the Patients Participation Group of the Crouch Oak Family Practice, being a STEM ambassador to local school children and responsible for the clock and bells at St Paul’s Church.

Service to the Community - Organisations

Winner - Egham Rangers
The Egham Rangers is a group of girls and young women that really impressed the judges with their sense of community.  Rangers is a branch of girl guiding and the Egham group has been running since 2015 and currently has 20 members which provides a safe space to enable members to express themselves and switch off from external pressures.  Many of the projects that they undertake are community based including litter picking, creating emergency parcels for people who need aid and fundraising to renovate their meeting place which can also be used by the community.  They have also taken part in the Libertea project which focuses on what girls can do today to make an impact.  We certainly believe they have made a huge impact on Runnymede and delighted to present them with this award for Service to Community.

Highly Commended - Dementia Carers Support Group
Dementia Carers Support Group received a large amount of nominations.  It is a unique charity run entirely by volunteers to provide invaluable support to carers who are looking after a loved one with dementia and have recently celebrated their 10 anniversary. 

Highly Commended - Holme Farm
The team of volunteers at Holme Farm, headed up by Ronnie & Christine Kendall have achieved amazing things this year, and have worked tirelessly to turn a disused area of land into a valuable part of the community.  They continue to go from strength to strength and were selected as one of the Mayor’s charities this year and she has enjoyed watching their fantastic progress.