Horsham's finest recognised at County Times Community Awards

A total of 13 awards were handed out to people who play an active role within their communities across Horsham district.

Among those present among the 100 strong audience which turned out at the theatre’s Studio was Cllr Peter Burgess, the chairman of Horsham District Council.

The big winner on the night was St Catherine’s Hospice, which claimed a total of four awards while Gill Buchanan, manager of the Swan Walk Shopping Centre, received the West Sussex County Times Achievement Award.

The evening was kicked off by Gary Shipton, the editor-in-chief of the County Times, before he handed over proceedings to Blaise Tapp, the paper’s community editor, and host for the evening.

He said: “The community awards really are very special because they are awards which belong to our readers and this year they have voted in big numbers for the nominees, meaning that these awards really do carry great significance.”

Hundreds of County Times readers took part in the nomination and voting process.

For more on the story and photos from the night buy this Thursday’s West Sussex County Times.

Winners

Best Volunteer, sponsored by UK Power Networks, winner: Dani Stark, St Catherine’s Hospice volunteer

Good Sport Award, sponsored by Places for People, winner: Phil Liberman, Horsham parkrun.

Special Recognition, sponsored by Horsham Rotary Club, winner: Julie Frogley

Charity of the Year, sponsored by the Capitol Theatre, winner: St Catherine’s Hospice

Best Community Organisation, sponsored by Ringway, winner: Phoenix Stroke Club, Horsham.

Friend to the Environment, sponsored by Swan Walk, winner: The Weald Greenpower Team, Billingshurst.

Best Fundraiser, winner: Dave Owen, St Catherine’s Hospice volunteer.

Local Hero, winner: Lou Harrod, Kookaburra Playgroup

Business of the Year, sponsored by Swan Walk, winner: Trimbio, Horsham

Start up of the year: Pollyanna’s Kitchen

Public Service Award, sponsored by Horsham District Council, winner: Jackie Shuttlewood

Care for Animals, winner: Arundawn Dog Rescue

West Sussex County Times Achievement Award, winner: Gill Buchanan, Swan Walk shopping centre.

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