Once again the Marriott Hotel in Enderby hosted a celebration of individuals and groups from the District of Blaby, who were recognised for their selfless work within their communities.

The eight finalists and their families joined special guests and sponsors on Thursday 05 October to enjoy the evening, as unsung heroes of Blaby District were honoured.

BBC East Midlands Today’s Maurice Flynn hosted the ceremony.

Finalists included Whetstone Good Neighbour Scheme, which only launched in 2016. Volunteers help older people in the village with everyday tasks, enabling them to be more independent. Their fantastic work saw the group receive NINE nominations.

In the Good Friend/Good Neighbour category, Glenfield-based David Whotton took the award for his fantastic work in ensuring his road, Farmers Close is a tight-knit community.

Christine Whittingham was crowned as Category B’s Volunteer of the Year. She has contributed over 10 years of volunteering to Home-Start Blaby District, which offers support, friendship and practical help to families in the local area.

Young Achiever of the Year Molly Lambert grew her hair for a year and donated the proceeds, and the hair, to the Little Princess Trust. Molly is also active at her college and within the Diabetes Choir as well as a champion of LGBT awareness.

Councillor Terry Richardson, Leader of Blaby District Council, said:

“This is the fourteenth consecutive year we have held the awards, where we take the opportunity to shine the spotlight on those individuals or groups who have enhanced people’s lives.

“What makes this event so unique is that it is fellow residents who take the time and trouble to submit nominations frequently, without the knowledge of those who they have nominated.

“Whilst we do select a winner and runner up in each category, every person or group nominated are, in my view, winners. This year’s finalists are just a reflection of some of the thousands of selfless volunteers and groups who make the District of Blaby such a great place to live.

“I want to congratulate all the finalists and to personally thank our sponsors who make this event possible.”

The awards are funded entirely through the generous sponsorship county-based businesses: Main sponsors Davidsons Homes along with category sponsors Fosse, Marriott Leicester, Ford and Slater and Westleigh Partnerships.

Full list of winners and runners up:

For more information on all of the finalists visit the Blaby District Council website page “Achievement Awards 2017“, or email
public.relations@blaby.gov.uk or call 0116 272 7577.