Awards night celebrates those who are improving lives in Derbyshire
The efforts and achievements of individuals and groups who are using physical activity to help improve the lives of people across Derbyshire were recognised at the Towards an Active Derbyshire Awards last week.
The exciting awards were jointly presented by sports broadcaster Colin Hazelden and GEM Radio presenter Jo Russell, with 200 guests attending the celebration. Entertainment was provided by Sing for your Supper community choir, Team Unit 1 Martial Arts and Erewash Valley Gymnastics Club.
The night celebrated some of the amazing work happening in the Derbyshire communities and Active Derbyshire, who organised the event, want the opportunity to thank the volunteers, groups and staff who help to make physical activity the norm.
Active Derbyshire help support the inactive to become active, ensure people are supported and encouraged to engage in activity, they also address the inequalities that can sometimes occur for those in priority groups such as lower socio-economic groups and women and girls.
2020 Winners and finalists
Change4Life award
Winner – James Illsley
Finalists – Derry Cooper, Rita Wagstaff
This Girl Can award
Winner – Afsana Afsar
Finalists – Hannah Kendall, Caroline Hill
Active Place award
Winner – Hunloke Community Garden
Finalists – Adam Fretwell PT, Freedom Leisure ARC Leisure
Community Coach of the year
Winner – Dave Cartawick
Finalists – Helen Thornhill, Jay Plimmer
Project/Initiative/Innovation award
Winner – Redwood Primary School
Finalists – #runwalktalk, Wiltsthorpe School
Inclusive Project, group or club of the year
Winner – Rhubarb Farm
Finalists – St Martins School Derby SHOUTaboutSEND, Ripley LC and William Gregg VC LC Dementia Friendly Swimming
Community Group/Association of the year
Winner – Ilkeston Cycling Club
Finalists – Alvaston Parkrun, Residents of Fairfield Association, Erewash Valley Gymnastics Club
Special Recognition award
Winner – Joe Mason
Finalists – Gillian Stallion, Libby Hawkins
Active Derbyshire also awarded a Community Contribution award to organisations who have made a unique contribution to local communities and who are worthy of special recognition. These were awarded to: Pingle Academy, Active Fostering work and Active4Life Petersham.
A special thanks also goes to the category sponsors of the event: Action Nation, Strategic Leisure, University of Derby, Derbyshire County Council and Derby City Council.
A full list of winner and finalist stories from the night can be found here.
Click here to find out more about Active Derbyshire
