Charnwood celebrates its community heroes for 2026
Charnwood celebrated residents whose dedication, kindness and community spirit make a real difference across the borough at an annual awards ceremony.
Charnwood Community Heroes, ran by the borough council, marks the work people have carried out in the borough and thanks them for their tireless efforts.
The awards ceremony was held on Saturday, 5 September 2026 at Burleigh Court in Loughborough where over 50 heroes were recognised.
From litter-pickers and green champions to trustees and organisers of community initiatives, the event celebrated everyday heroes whose commitment, generosity and dedication have helped build stronger, more connected communities across the borough.
Cllr Jenni Tillotson, the Council’s Deputy Leader, said:
“The Community Heroes Awards are a real highlight of the year. It is wonderful coming together to celebrate the people of Charnwood whoreally make a difference. They are everyday, real-life heroes who care, act and inspire and continue to have a positive impact on their communities.”
“I would like to give my personal thanks to all of the heroes we have celebrated this year.”
This year’s event was kindly sponsored by Loughborough Schools Foundation, Loughborough College Group and idverde.
The awards were compared by Mark O’Sullivan from Fosse 107 and the Mayor and Mayoress of Charnwood, Cllr Colin Hamilton and Emma Lowe were also in attendance.
The Harry Cook Award is awarded to someone who has made an outstanding contribution to the community. It was chosen by Harry’s family. Harry, along with wife Pat, was heavily involved in Loughborough in Bloom and their floral home not only featured on the bloom judging route but also on BBC Gardener’s World. Harry sadly died in 2018. Pat is the chair of the Loughborough in Bloom Board.
The winner of the Harry Cook Award for 2026 was Harper Brown for spending part of her summer holiday collecting litter around Syston.
Andrew Earnshaw, from Loughborough Schools Foundation, sponsor of the Young Hero award, said: “We are delighted to sponsor the Young Hero category and to celebrate the remarkable contribution that young people are making across Charnwood. It is particularly inspiring to see the initiative, kindness and determination they demonstrate in making a real difference in their communities.
“The stories behind this year’s nominations are a wonderful reminder that age is no barrier to making a positive impact. These young people are excellent role models and thoroughly deserve the opportunity to have their achievements recognised and celebrated.”
Lucy Howes, Vice Principal Learner Services and Quality at Loughborough College, sponsor of the Inspiring Others category, said: “Loughborough College Group has a long-standing commitment to helping people build their skills, confidence, and future opportunities. As a proud part of the Charnwood community, we believe in celebrating the dedication, hard work and achievements of local people.
“Sponsoring the Inspiring Others category at this year’s awards allows us to recognise the remarkable individuals who are going above and beyond to make a positive impact. Their dedication and spirit reflect exactly what we strive to nurture every day here at the College.”
idverde, the Council’s open spaces partner, sponsored the Green Hero category. Nicola Clarke, community engagement officer at idverde, said: “It was amazing to be at the ceremony and listen to all the stories.I would like to thank all the heroes celebrated today for the wonderful work they carry out.”
Below is a list of the 2026 Charnwood Community Heroes:
Young Hero (sponsored by Loughborough Schools Foundation)
Chloe Findley
Ruby Findley
Harper Brown
Daniel Wilkinson
Super Trooper
Dorothy Mee
Olivia Wildsmith
Nick Shivers
Pat Cook
Alan Trahar
Olga Shatalina
Sarah Monk
Destiny Russell
Gary Brewin
Julie Tinley
Tony Coats
Helen Cliffe
Ian Winter
Dawn Fullerton
Nick Harris
Sandie Forrest
David Benton
Richard Hart
Sandra Harrison
Inspiring Others (sponsored by Loughborough College)
Jill O’Neil
AshleyRimon
Janet Bond
Ricky-Joe Haddell
Liz Waddell
Stella Watson
Olha Bielohlazova
Faheem Ali
Wanda Berdej
Judith Harrison
Wendy Smith
Martin Bujdoso
Carl Brooks
Anne Nelson
Diane Musson
Natalie Newton
John Charles
Mick Westwood
Brilliant Board / Trustee Member
Sarina Martin
Man Ho Tarcissus Li (Duff Li)
Mel Gould
Community Heritage Champions
Christine Harris
David Kirkby
Beyond the Call of Duty
Karen Frostick
Carmel Martin
Mya Kelley
CHECK OUT THE PICTURES HERE Charnwood Community Heroes 2026
CHARNWOOD BOROUGH COUNCIL NEWS - Published: Wed 9th September, 2026
