Friday, 13th September saw 160 excited guests fill The Maltings for the 7th glitzy Ely Hero Awards Ceremony, with honourable guest His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Cambridgeshire, Mr Daniel Schumann in attendance.
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The venue was filled with joy and excitement as guests entered the beautifully decorated Elysian Hall, tables laden with goodie bags, balloon bouquets, lustrous lighting and the stunning voice of local singer Julia Stead. Host, Sue Marchant, welcomed guests to the event before dinner was served.
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An auction was held in aid of Highfield School PTA which raised £890. Lots included a 1966 World Cup signed photo and film memorabilia donated by local businesses. A raffle bolstered the fundraising total on the night to £1,704.Â
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The Host, Sue Marchant presented 10 of the categories and passed gold envelopes to category sponsors to announce each winner. His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant for Cambridgeshire, Mr Daniel Schumann presented the overall award – THE Ely Hero 2024 – where he reflected that “a hero isn’t measured by the size of their strength, but by the strength of their heart.”
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As part of the Lieutenancy’s support of the Ely Hero Awards is their commitment to extending an invite for The Ely Hero 2024 winner to attend The Royal Garden Party – what an honour!
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The Ely Hero 2024 winner, Angels Arribas gave an impromptu speech when she was awarded, saying “in the same way we need oxygen to breathe, we need community.” Overcome with emotion, Angels was extremely grateful to all her nominees who spoke of her as “Angels by name, Angel by nature”, due to her commitment to Oasis Cancer Hub, a support group Angels set up for individuals suffering or recovering from Cancer.Â
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The whole event is sponsored by local businesses, many of whom have supported the event since the first award ceremony in 2017. The judging panel is made up of local individuals, including past winners.
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The event continues to thrive and grow each year, rewarding individuals and celebrating the community. Luke Smith, Co-organiser of the event says “each year we are blown away by the support from the community, not only in nominating their heroes but businesses who want to give back. This year we received a record number of nominations which made for a fantastic event. Ely Hero Awards is so full of life and energy!”
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Ely Hero Awards will be back for 2025! If you would like to make a nomination for your Hero to be considered for an award, check www.elyheroawards.org.uk/nominate for more details.
2024 Category Winners
The Janet Eisold Smiliest Server – Joann Jobling, Marmalade and Jam
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Colleague of the Year – Clare Gatherole
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Most Amazing Professional – Sue Smith, Sweet Peas Childcare
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Caring Companion – Lisa Radcliffe & Holly Wilson
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Neighbour of the Year – Becky Stanford
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The Mike Rouse Community Champion – Nathan Buckle
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Environmental Champion – Megan Hudson
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Child of Achievement – Noah Arbon
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Jay Davison Award – Jessica Preston
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Best Teacher – Lisa Berry
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Sporting Hero – Eddie Guest
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The Ely Hero – Angels Arribas