NOW and again there are events you attend that leave you feeling a little bit humble. Look left and look right and there were Thurrock citizens at the Thurrock Civic Awards, 2014 that had done so much for their neighbours, their friends, their borough and their country, that you had nothing but unstinting praise for.
The Thurrock Civic Awards were held at the National Skills Academy in the High House Production Park. The evening was hosted by BBC Essex DJ Dave Monk whose light but professional touch gave the evening a warm glow. As did the magnificent surroundings.
The fact that there was so many people nominated shows how deeply Thurrock citizens feel about those who go the extra mile. Congrats to those nominated, further congrats to those on the short list and then a final well done to the winners.
They were:
Civic life
Sponsored by HW Wilson Ltd
A very special award celebrating a person for their outstanding contribution and dedication to the borough over their lifetime.
Winner: Winnie and Albert England
Community together
Sponsored by intu Lakeside
This award recognises those involved in bringing diverse communities together through a local project or community event.
Winner: Angela Ruff
Olympic legacy
Sponsored by Impulse Leisure
For an individual or club that has contributed to a lasting Olympic legacy in Thurrock by encouraging more participation in sport. It is also to celebrate and thank those who give their time to working behind the scenes at local sports clubs and groups.
Winner: Hazel Day
Creative excellence
Sponsored by High House Production Park
For an individual or organisation that has contributed to raising the profile of the arts in Thurrock, be it visual arts, amateur dramatics or music. This person may be the star of the show or they could work behind the scenes helping to make it happen.
Winner: Vera Plumridge
Environmental hero
Sponsored by Thurrock Enquirer
For an unsung hero who works to celebrate or protect the environment we live in. It could be someone who champions recycling or is involved with an environmental project in the borough.
Winner: Clare Asplin
Young achiever
Sponsored by South Essex College
Celebrates an inspirational young person who has made an outstanding contribution in volunteering and to the local community, showing leadership, commitment and enthusiasm. Must be aged 25 years or under.
Winner: Faizal Akindele
Business in the community
Sponsored by Essex Chamber of Commerce
Thurrock has many outstanding businesses that play a crucial role in economic wellbeing of the borough. This award recognises the businesses that have invested in Thurrock to make it a great place to live and work.
Winner: Port of Tilbury
Supporting local communities
Sponsored by Mears
For a community group or organisation that has excelled in supporting local communities to support themselves.
Winner: Julie Barker
Healthy living
Sponsored by Procter and Gamble
For an individual or organisation that has improved their own or the health and wellbeing of their local community.
Winner: Charlotte Yoxall
Mayor’s award
Sponsored by Thurrock Council
The Mayor of Thurrock shortlisted 5 individuals or groups for their outstanding work in the community, with the winner to be decided by public vote. Voting has now closed for the 2014 Mayor’s award.
Winner: Ngage
Rachel Middleton award
Sponsored by Serco
For an individual who has shown extreme personal courage in the face of adversity through illness or disability.
Joint winners
Dee Lodge
Daisy Manning
Kim James
Christina Jackson
Here is a photo collage from the nominee and dedicated photographer, Rob Lay
