Newmarket had plenty to celebrate this week as the town’s unsung heroes were honoured at the Newmarket Community Awards, held at the Jockey Club Rooms.
Now in their sixth year, the awards recognise residents who quietly go above and beyond for others, often without ever seeking recognition. This year’s event saw 68 nominations across categories including caring, volunteering, fundraising and young person of the year, a testament to just how much good is happening across the town.
Among the winners was Jan Stiff, a pioneer at children’s support group Kidzone and a foster carer who also organises community events at All Saints Church. Annie Moran was recognised for her work as lead volunteer at the Newmarket Community Pantry, where she has supported around 150 local families. Fund-raiser Matt Dyer took top honours for spearheading a charity golf day that raised more than £11,000 for Autism in Racing and Newmarket Rugby Club.
There were emotional moments too. Teenager Amelia Geran was honoured for her quick thinking earlier this year, raising the alarm when a fire broke out in her family’s flat and helping neighbours to safety while studying for her GCSEs. Runner-up Harry Paramo, junior captain at Newmarket Links Golf Club, completed a remarkable 100 hole golf challenge in just 13 hours, raising £7,277 for The Sick Children’s Trust.
The awards continue to grow thanks to the dedication of founders Alan and Christine Shand and a committee drawn from the event’s sponsors and supporters, which now includes the Jockey Club, Newmarket Town Council, Godolphin, Tattersalls, NHRM, Discover Newmarket, Goldings of Newmarket, Newmarket Journal, the Racing Centre, West Suffolk Council, the British Racing School, Rossdales, European Breeders News, Newmarket Equine Hospital and Tesco among others.
Newmarket Charitable Foundation was proud to support this year’s awards with behind the scenes administrative assistance. It was a privilege to play a small part in an evening that shone such a well-deserved spotlight on the people who make our town what it is.
Full report from Newmarket Journal
Congratulations to every winner and nominee. Newmarket is lucky to have you.