Last night, on 16 October, Broadland celebrated its local unsung heroes at the Broadland Community Awards 2025, held at The Royal Norwich Golf Club in Weston Longville. Now in its twelfth year, the awards are organised by Broadland District Council and sponsored by Clarion Housing alongside a range of local businesses. They recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers who make a real difference in communities across the district.
Cllr Caroline Karimi-Ghovanlou, Chair of Broadland District Council, said the awards “illuminate the extraordinary individuals and organisations whose quiet acts of service ripple through Broadland, transforming lives and uplifting communities. Their unwavering dedication, deep compassion, and remarkable resilience are the heartbeat of our district. It was a true honour to stand among them and celebrate the spirit that makes Broadland not just a place but a community defined by kindness, strength, and hope.”
Awards were presented across ten categories, each highlighting the impact of individuals and organisations making a tangible difference locally. The Business in the Community Award went to The Shoulder of Mutton in Strumpshaw, where Bob and Dani have transformed a village pub into a hub of connection and care.
Laura Wilkinson received the Rising Star Award for her work with Social Moments Enterprise, improving Broadland’s food pantries and youth programmes.
Fiona Worner, founder of St Faiths Sunflowers, took home the Environmental Champion Award for her work revitalising green spaces and fostering community spirit.
Go Paddle Norfolk, led by Katie, won the Healthy and Active Award for their inclusive and environmentally conscious approach, while The Black Dog Music Project received the Connecting Communities Award for using music to support mental health recovery.
The Volunteer of the Year Award went to Gillian Alexander for more than twenty years of dedicated service to local schools and Brownies, leaving a lasting legacy. Social Moments Enterprise was named Community Organisation of the Year, and Penny Goodman was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for decades of service in Buxton.
The Young Achiever Award was presented to Ruby Everson, a young carer and advocate whose resilience and ambition to become a barrister inspired everyone in attendance.
The ceremony celebrated the remarkable efforts of residents who go above and beyond to support others, demonstrating the strength, compassion, and commitment that define Broadland’s communities.
