And the winner is....

Written on 29 April 2025.

{Play}Marlborough's community champions are revealed

Volunteers are the unsung heroes who hold a community together. This was recognised at the Annual Town Meeting in the Town Hall on Monday, 28 April when Town Mayor Kym-Marie Cleasby was delighted to announce the Community Champions for 2025, as nominated by members of the community. You may know some of these names, but not all - and there's a theme here. So many of you nominated people who work quietly, with no thought of recognition or reward, all through the year just driven by their desire to help others. Hopefully these awards give them the recognition they deserve.

Educator of the Year was awarded to Cheryl Heuston, Marlborough Academy of Dance & Drama (MAD). Demonstrating Cheryl's dedication, she was unable to attend the event because she was teaching students who had an imminent exam. MAD Students accepted the award on her behalf, and the Mayor dropped in to deliver it to Cheryl later in the evening.

Business Community Engagement Award accepted on behalf of Genevieve Clarke by Mary-vere Parr, Marlborough Lit Fest.

Arts & Culture Advocate awarded to Caroline Goodfellow for decades of support to The Merchants House. There was a special mention in this category too for Roger Grant recognising his contribution in this category for MantonFest, other concerts, support to High Street events and much more.

The Community Spirit Award went to Action for the River Kennet as an organisation, with Anna Forbes accepting on its behalf.

Two awards went to people who have supported Marlborough Rugby Club over a number of years: Ben Fawdry picked up the Youth Leader Award and Dave Pittams was recognised as Sports & Recreation Champion.

The Environmental Stewardship Award went to Val Compton for supporting the town in many ways, from Marlborough in Bloom and the Waterfront Garden through to being renamed 'Flood Val' for her contribution to flood planning and recovery.

Health and Wellbeing Hero Tracey Lavis was unable to attend on the night, and Frances Barrone accepted the award on her behalf. Tracey was nominated to recognise her unstinting, flexible person-centred care services.

Youth Person who has made a difference went to Thomas Pratchett for his charity fundraising and love of helping others.

Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Catherine Williams for her work behind the scenes of Love Marlborough Kids Meals, with a special mention in this category to Pauline Berryman - nominated for her year-round support of others in many ways.