Now in its 8th year, the Ely Hero Awards has launched with great enthusiasm, bringing together past winners, sponsors, and judges to celebrate the inspiring individuals who make a difference in the local community. Hosted by the ever-charismatic Sue Marchant, guests were introduced to the exciting plans for this year’s awards at a lively and heart-warming launch event.
The evening was further elevated by the presence of Mrs Sue Freestone, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, who spoke about the enduring support the Lieutenancy Office provides to the Ely Hero Awards. She emphasised how His Majesty The King takes a keen interest in uplifting community stories, and how this royal support has led to royal invitations being extended to several past Ely Hero winners — a truly special recognition.
A key highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Charity of the Year: Cambridgeshire Search and Rescue (CamSAR). This professional volunteer team plays a crucial role in locating vulnerable missing persons across the county. Wayne Bent, a dedicated volunteer and 2023 Ely Hero Award recipient, delivered a compelling presentation on the life-saving work carried out by CamSAR. We are proud to champion their efforts throughout this year’s campaign.
Guests enjoyed thoughtful touches such as a candy cart and Ely Heroes-themed goodie bags generously donated by the Re-Imagine Resource Centre, while a spirited game of bingo—complete with a top prize courtesy of Victoria’s Cheese Shop—rounded off the evening on a high note.
Nominations are now open! If you know someone in Ely who goes above and beyond, now is the time to shine a light on their efforts.
Submit your nomination via the website: www.elyheroawards.org.uk/nominate.
Let’s celebrate the everyday heroes who make our community so extraordinary.
The evening was further elevated by the presence of Mrs Sue Freestone, His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, who spoke about the enduring support the Lieutenancy Office provides to the Ely Hero Awards. She emphasised how His Majesty The King takes a keen interest in uplifting community stories, and how this royal support has led to royal invitations being extended to several past Ely Hero winners — a truly special recognition.
A key highlight of the evening was the announcement of the Charity of the Year: Cambridgeshire Search and Rescue (CamSAR). This professional volunteer team plays a crucial role in locating vulnerable missing persons across the county. Wayne Bent, a dedicated volunteer and 2023 Ely Hero Award recipient, delivered a compelling presentation on the life-saving work carried out by CamSAR. We are proud to champion their efforts throughout this year’s campaign.
Guests enjoyed thoughtful touches such as a candy cart and Ely Heroes-themed goodie bags generously donated by the Re-Imagine Resource Centre, while a spirited game of bingo—complete with a top prize courtesy of Victoria’s Cheese Shop—rounded off the evening on a high note.
Nominations are now open! If you know someone in Ely who goes above and beyond, now is the time to shine a light on their efforts.
Submit your nomination via the website: www.elyheroawards.org.uk/nominate.
Let’s celebrate the everyday heroes who make our community so extraordinary.
