Residents and local organisations were honoured last week for their hard work and dedication to the community at the annual Pride of Gedling awards.
The annual awards – now in their 10th year – celebrated the efforts and special achievements of individuals, groups and organisations from the across the borough that have made a lasting impact on the community.
Award organisers at the council revealed they received more than 300 nominations across the six award categories.
Here is the full list of the winners and runners up:
Business in the Community Award
Sponsored by Nottinghamshire County Council, the Business in the Community Award was presented to Phone Fix Mapperley Ltd.
The business is run by Mohamed Akbar who is well known locally for his honesty, patience and generosity, especially with older residents, whether he is lending a phone to people going into hospital, or assisting people involved in a car accident outside his business.
The runners-up were Happy Kindergarden, Joy2Care and Mum2Mum Market East Midlands.
Dylan Barker Young Person of the Year Award
Named in memory of former award recipient Dylan Barker and sponsored by The Mellors Group, this award celebrates people aged under 21 who have shown exceptional community dedication.
James Moore was this year’s winner, having shown exceptional dedication to youth sport and community development through Gedling Southbank FC.
The runners up were Fatimah Malik and Connor Williamson, who were acknowledged for their contributions to the Gedling Borough’s community.
Community Hero Award
This award, sponsored by Persimmon Homes, was presented to Bev Norman, a pillar of the Mapperley community, Norman has fostered or adopted over 60 at-risk children throughout her life and runs a wellbeing space and community café at St Jude’s.
The runners-up were Jan Turton, Jess and Lee Neal and Leanne Gilchrist and James Brookshaw.
Environmental Hero Award
Sponsored by The Wilkins Group, the Environmental Hero Award was presented to Peter Wiles, for his work as Chair of the Woodborough Flood Action Group. Peter provides practical and emotional support to those impacted by flooding, leading initiatives that have strengthened community resilience.
The runners up were Beth Danks and The Friends of Gedling House Woods.
Outstanding Community Project
After being runners up last year, Dice and Balls CIC won the Outstanding Community Project Award this year, sponsored by Jigsaw Homes.
They provide a vibrant, inclusive community hub in Arnold, offering creative, social and educational activities for people of all ages and backgrounds. Their events foster connection, confidence and wellbeing.
The runners up were Spritely Sustainable CIC, The Friends of Valley Road Playing Grounds and The Community Coaching Company CIC.
Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award
Tommy Thompson received the Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award, sponsored by Gedling Leisure.
Tommy has been a dedicated boxing coach in Netherfield for over 25 years, transforming lives through sport. Tommy supports vulnerable young people, helping them to build confidence and steer away from negative influences. He also fundraises for Child Bereavement UK, aiming to raise £10,000 this year.
Runners-up Rob Buckby and Dave Palmer from Arnold Swimming Club and Sam, Hollie and Stuart Lee received certificates for their contributions to the wellbeing of the community.
Overall Pride of Gedling Award
The highly coveted Overall Pride of Gedling Award 2025 went to Tommy Thompson, who also won the Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award. With this honour, Tommy’s name was added to the Pride of Gedling Wall in the council chamber, serving as a lasting tribute to his positive influence on the community.
Councillor John Clarke MBE, Leader of Gedling Borough Council, said: “The evening was a wonderful celebration of the remarkable people across the borough who make our community a better place.
“It is truly inspiring to see the positive impact these individuals and groups have made on the lives of others.
“I am proud of all the nominees and winners of this year’s Pride of Gedling Awards and I am grateful to everyone who helps make Gedling such a special place.”
