Mayor’s Civic Awards celebrate the best of Alnwick!
Alnwick Town Council celebrated the best of Alnwick this week when it hosted the annual Mayor’s Civic Awards ceremony, which gave due recognition to the people that make Alnwick such a great town.
For the first time the ceremony was held at Alnwick Playhouse where the Mayor, Councillor Geoff Watson presented awards in three categories: Youth, Individual and Group.
There were three recipients of the Youth Award.
Amy Weatherill was nominated for her her musical leadership and work with the music department of the Duchess’s Community High School and in particular their production of Disco Inferno.
The performing arts is also the area that Lexie Slater shines in where she has taken on lead and ensemble roles with enthusiasm and positivity.
Archie Braid was nominated for his outstanding contribution to theatre both on and off stage where he has shown dedication across performance, direction, and technical production.
Ten people were presented with individual awards.
The first was Rosemary Bloom who has led the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal in Alnwick for over a decade.
For over 25 years Martin O’Hanlon has offered support to St Paul’s Catholic Church and the initiatives it undertakes within the local community.
Rob Paul is one of the behind-the scenes team at Alnwick Playhouse where his film programming has built audiences and strengthened the town’s cultural offering.
Julia Lyford is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent young adults and has been key in the development of the Splinter Hub.
Sam Hargreave is an amazing fundraiser. After overcoming serious illness, he has raised over £19,000 for the Teenage Cancer Trust and supporting other young people facing similar challenges.
Sue Allcroft received an individual award as acknowledgement of more than 20 years’ service as a member of Alnwick Town Council where she supported residents with commitment and care.
Michael Cook has given outstanding service to Alnwick Town Football Club, including raising over £90,000 through the weekly letter draw.
Laura Tollervey is an inspiring leader with local Rainbows and Brownies where she has made a lasting difference to members of the local community.
Liz Adams has given outstanding leadership to Alnwick in Bloom, guiding the town to national success in Britain in Bloom and enhancing the local environment through her dedication and vision.
David Jackson is nominated because of his 36 years of dedicated service to the Alnwick Shrovetide Football Match, playing a key role in preserving one of the town’s most historic traditions.
Ten groups were presented with Mayor’s Civic Awards.
Alnwick Round Table bring the community together through events, fundraising, and initiatives that add enjoyment and support to life in Alnwick.
The team at The Fleece support local charities and provide a welcoming space while helping those in need.
Alncom’s award recognises their community support for charities, initiatives and organisations across Alnwick.
Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide providing a safe and understanding space for individuals facing loss and isolation.
North Northumberland Adult Community Treatment Team offer care and support within the community to help individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Alnwick Stage Musical Society’s award recognises their high-quality performances that inspire creativity and bring people together across generations.
Scarlett’s Helping Hand support vulnerable families, providing essential items and they also deliver a Christmas appeal that brings relief and joy to those in need. (Unable to attend presentation ceremony).
Alnwick Lions providing ongoing support and funding to individuals, projects and initiatives across the local community.
Crafting for Cancer are dedicated fundraisers. They bring the community together through creativity, compassion and shared experience.
The continuation of Alnwick Shrovetide Football Match is due to the work of the Alnwick’s Shrovetide Football Committee and thanks to them this most historic and unique tradition continues to thrive.
The Mayor welcomed fellow councillor Gillian Castle to the stage where she gave an inspiring address outlining the work she has done with Chameleon Buddies, the charity she set up to support women who require stoma support following childbirth trauma.
The audience were also entertained by a series of acts displaying their local talent, namely Alnwick Academy of Dance, Alnwick Stage Musical Society and Alnwick All Stars.
Commenting at the end of the awards ceremony Alnwick Town Mayor Councillor Geoff Watson commented; “This evening is proof, if it were needed, that Alnwick is a fantastic place because of the people who live and work here and choose to go the extra mile for the benefit of the community. Everyone here this evening has one thing in common – we all love Alnwick!”