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Western Telegraph
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire people at BBC Make a Difference Awards
The BBC Cymru Wales Make a Difference Awards 2025 has recognised individuals and groups across the country for their outstanding contributions to their communities. The 32 finalists were selected from more than 700 nominees. Among those representing Pembrokeshire are a retired racehorse and a dedicated environmentalist. Ozzy, under the name Up For An Oscar, a retired racehorse from Pembrokeshire, has been nominated for the Animal Award. Once deemed unmanageable, Ozzy now serves as a therapy horse at Redberth Croft CIC, offering vital support to vulnerable individuals. Sharron Taylor is another Pembrokeshire representative shortlisted for her efforts in the Green Award category. The founder of Tipi Fields, Ms Taylor has made a significant impact on her local environment and community by cleaning coastlines of debris and marine waste. Her work doesn't stop at tidying up the coast; Ms Taylor also transforms the waste into unique, handcrafted items, breathing new life into discarded materials. BBC Radio Wales' Lucy Owen praised the nominees, saying: "We're absolutely blown away by the nominations we've had. "There are so many wonderful stories about community groups making a huge difference in their local areas and outstanding individuals committed to bringing people together, fundraising for good causes and caring for others." BBC Radio Cymru's Shân Cothi added: "Over 700 nominations for our very first Make a Difference Awards in Wales says so much about who we are as a nation. "It's incredible to hear about some of the amazing things that people are doing right across Wales. "A huge congratulations to everyone who was nominated and to all of our brilliant finalists." The winners will be chosen by a panel of judges from the BBC, including well-known presenters like Katie Owen, Lauren Price, and Gethin Jones. The successful community heroes will be announced at the awards ceremony on September 20 in Cardiff. The BBC Cymru Wales Make a Difference Awards 2025 aim to celebrate and acknowledge the people who go above and beyond in their communities, shining a light on these often-unsung heroes. This is the first year the awards have been held in Wales. A full list of the categories and finalists is available on the BBC's Make a Difference Awards website. The event, led by BBC Cymru Wales, is set to become an annual celebration of community spirit and selfless dedication.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- General
- Scoop
Honouring The People Behind New Zealand's Cemeteries And Crematoria
Press Release – New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Collective New Zealand's cemeteries and crematoria are more than just spaces — they are places of remembrance, connection, and care. Tonight, the people and projects behind these vital community places were recognised at the 2025 Cemeteries Awards, held in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as part of the Recreation Aotearoa Parks and Cemeteries Awards. The biennial Cemeteries Awards celebrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and service in the cemeteries and crematoria sector. Daniel Chrisp, NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu Chair, said the awards shine a light on a sector that is vital but often works quietly in the background. 'Cemeteries and crematoria are important spaces in our communities. These awards recognise the people who care for them, and the people and communities they support — often during life's most difficult moments,' he said. Green Award 2025 The Green Award recognises effective climate action in cemeteries and crematoria operations. Invercargill City Council won the award for the sustainable practices it has introduced into its operations. These include replacing plastic urns with biodegradable wooden alternatives and restoring native habitat, which has welcomed back tūī, kererū, pīwakawaka, and ruru. The team also shifted to electric mowers and battery-powered tools, reducing emissions and enhancing tranquillity for visitors. Community Contribution Award 2025 Allan Dodson of Porirua War Stories received this award for his tireless advocacy in honouring New Zealand's service personnel. Allan has helped install over 15 veteran headstones for previously unmarked graves, restoring dignity to service members and their whānau. He also ensured the name of Leon Smith, killed in action in Afghanistan, was added to the Porirua Peace Memorial through meticulous historical research and community coordination. Individual Excellence Award 2025 Kelvin Tamihere of Gisborne District Council was recognised for outstanding leadership at Taruheru Cemetery. Known for his compassion and professionalism, Kelvin has supported whānau through challenging times, including during Cyclone Gabrielle. He continues to embody manaakitanga and uphold tikanga, leading health and safety initiatives and working closely with groups such as the Friends of Makaraka. Long Service Awards The following individuals were celebrated for their long-standing dedication and service to the cemeteries and crematoria sector in Aotearoa: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Ricky Mulqueen, Invercargill City Council James Duffy, Citycare Properties Hayden Parr, Whāngarei City Council Elizabeth Reddington, Wellington City Council Ingro Shreck, Citycare Properties Sheree Stout, Auckland Council Life Membership Awards Life Membership was awarded to foundational figures of NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu, recognising long-term commitment, leadership, and vision in shaping the cemeteries and crematoria sector: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Jeff Paris, Wellington City Council Michelle Rivers, Hamilton City Council Clifton Thomson, Purewa Cemetery 'Cemeteries and crematoria are places where history, identity, and memory are held. They're spaces where people find connection and care during life's hardest moments. These awards honour those who work hard to honour the history, the memories, and the people,' said Chrisp.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- General
- Scoop
Honouring The People Behind New Zealand's Cemeteries And Crematoria
Press Release – New Zealand Cemeteries and Crematoria Collective Cemeteries and crematoria are places where history, identity, and memory are held. Theyre spaces where people find connection and care during lifes hardest moments. These awards honour those who work hard to honour the history, the memories, and … New Zealand's cemeteries and crematoria are more than just spaces — they are places of remembrance, connection, and care. Tonight, the people and projects behind these vital community places were recognised at the 2025 Cemeteries Awards, held in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as part of the Recreation Aotearoa Parks and Cemeteries Awards. The biennial Cemeteries Awards celebrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and service in the cemeteries and crematoria sector. Daniel Chrisp, NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu Chair, said the awards shine a light on a sector that is vital but often works quietly in the background. 'Cemeteries and crematoria are important spaces in our communities. These awards recognise the people who care for them, and the people and communities they support — often during life's most difficult moments,' he said. Green Award 2025 The Green Award recognises effective climate action in cemeteries and crematoria operations. Invercargill City Council won the award for the sustainable practices it has introduced into its operations. These include replacing plastic urns with biodegradable wooden alternatives and restoring native habitat, which has welcomed back tūī, kererū, pīwakawaka, and ruru. The team also shifted to electric mowers and battery-powered tools, reducing emissions and enhancing tranquillity for visitors. Community Contribution Award 2025 Allan Dodson of Porirua War Stories received this award for his tireless advocacy in honouring New Zealand's service personnel. Allan has helped install over 15 veteran headstones for previously unmarked graves, restoring dignity to service members and their whānau. He also ensured the name of Leon Smith, killed in action in Afghanistan, was added to the Porirua Peace Memorial through meticulous historical research and community coordination. Individual Excellence Award 2025 Kelvin Tamihere of Gisborne District Council was recognised for outstanding leadership at Taruheru Cemetery. Known for his compassion and professionalism, Kelvin has supported whānau through challenging times, including during Cyclone Gabrielle. He continues to embody manaakitanga and uphold tikanga, leading health and safety initiatives and working closely with groups such as the Friends of Makaraka. Long Service Awards The following individuals were celebrated for their long-standing dedication and service to the cemeteries and crematoria sector in Aotearoa: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Ricky Mulqueen, Invercargill City Council James Duffy, Citycare Properties Hayden Parr, Whāngarei City Council Elizabeth Reddington, Wellington City Council Ingro Shreck, Citycare Properties Sheree Stout, Auckland Council Life Membership Awards Life Membership was awarded to foundational figures of NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu, recognising long-term commitment, leadership, and vision in shaping the cemeteries and crematoria sector: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Jeff Paris, Wellington City Council Michelle Rivers, Hamilton City Council Clifton Thomson, Purewa Cemetery 'Cemeteries and crematoria are places where history, identity, and memory are held. They're spaces where people find connection and care during life's hardest moments. These awards honour those who work hard to honour the history, the memories, and the people,' said Chrisp.
Scoop
21-05-2025
- General
- Scoop
Honouring The People Behind New Zealand's Cemeteries And Crematoria
New Zealand's cemeteries and crematoria are more than just spaces — they are places of remembrance, connection, and care. Tonight, the people and projects behind these vital community places were recognised at the 2025 Cemeteries Awards, held in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland as part of the Recreation Aotearoa Parks and Cemeteries Awards. The biennial Cemeteries Awards celebrate outstanding leadership, innovation, and service in the cemeteries and crematoria sector. Daniel Chrisp, NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu Chair, said the awards shine a light on a sector that is vital but often works quietly in the background. 'Cemeteries and crematoria are important spaces in our communities. These awards recognise the people who care for them, and the people and communities they support — often during life's most difficult moments,' he said. Green Award 2025 The Green Award recognises effective climate action in cemeteries and crematoria operations. Invercargill City Council won the award for the sustainable practices it has introduced into its operations. These include replacing plastic urns with biodegradable wooden alternatives and restoring native habitat, which has welcomed back tūī, kererū, pīwakawaka, and ruru. The team also shifted to electric mowers and battery-powered tools, reducing emissions and enhancing tranquillity for visitors. Community Contribution Award 2025 Allan Dodson of Porirua War Stories received this award for his tireless advocacy in honouring New Zealand's service personnel. Allan has helped install over 15 veteran headstones for previously unmarked graves, restoring dignity to service members and their whānau. He also ensured the name of Leon Smith, killed in action in Afghanistan, was added to the Porirua Peace Memorial through meticulous historical research and community coordination. Individual Excellence Award 2025 Kelvin Tamihere of Gisborne District Council was recognised for outstanding leadership at Taruheru Cemetery. Known for his compassion and professionalism, Kelvin has supported whānau through challenging times, including during Cyclone Gabrielle. He continues to embody manaakitanga and uphold tikanga, leading health and safety initiatives and working closely with groups such as the Friends of Makaraka. Long Service Awards The following individuals were celebrated for their long-standing dedication and service to the cemeteries and crematoria sector in Aotearoa: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Ricky Mulqueen, Invercargill City Council James Duffy, Citycare Properties Hayden Parr, Whāngarei City Council Elizabeth Reddington, Wellington City Council Ingro Shreck, Citycare Properties Sheree Stout, Auckland Council Life Membership Awards Life Membership was awarded to foundational figures of NZCCC Ngā Rau Hotu, recognising long-term commitment, leadership, and vision in shaping the cemeteries and crematoria sector: Mary Climo, Porirua City Council Jeff Paris, Wellington City Council Michelle Rivers, Hamilton City Council Clifton Thomson, Purewa Cemetery 'Cemeteries and crematoria are places where history, identity, and memory are held. They're spaces where people find connection and care during life's hardest moments. These awards honour those who work hard to honour the history, the memories, and the people,' said Chrisp.
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Civic award winners recognised for outstanding contributions to community
The outgoing Mayor of Stockton has honoured outstanding people and organisations. Councillor John Gardner, in his final engagement as mayor, presented the awards at the annual Mayor's Civic Awards. These awards recognise individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the community. Councillor Gardner said: "It was a pleasure to present these awards to worthy winners from around the borough and it was a fitting way to end my mayoral year. The Green Award (Image: Stockton Council) "The community spirit across our borough is so strong and it was brilliant to be able to shine a light on some of the residents and organisations who help make that possible." The winners of this years awards were announced across eight categories including Green, Young Person, Service to Community, Health and Wellbeing, Carer/Foster Carer, and Mayor's Special Award. The Green Award went to the Mill Lane Community Garden group. Services to the Community Award (Image: Stockton Council) This group of volunteers transformed an overgrown piece of land into a community space with vegetables, flowers, and bug hotels. They've also engaged with Mill Lane Primary School for workshops and created a mural for the garden. The Young Person award had joint winners this year - Amelia Howson and Myles Sivewright. Mayor's Special Award (Image: Stockton Council) These selfless young carers have supported family members, raised awareness about young carers, and developed a mental health support booklet for young carers. Blue Light Babies (BLB) won the Service to Community award for groups and organisations. With more than 7,000 members, BLB has made more than 13,000 outfits for the Give A Duck foundation's ducks, used as teaching aids for children diagnosed with cancer. Joanne Owen, a paramedic, was recognised for her individual service to the community. Through her Facebook group, Blue Light Babies, Joanne has donated more than 8,000 of her handmade 'Snugglepods' to ambulance trusts across the UK. These pouches provide comfort to parents who have lost their premature babies in ambulances. The Service to Community - Business award was given to Hampton by Hilton for their dementia-friendly training and monthly drop-in groups for residents living with dementia or feeling lonely. The Women's Health Team at Hartlepool and Stockton Health were recognised in the Health and Wellbeing category for their support of people experiencing menopause. Since launching their menopause drop-in cafés in January 2023, they have helped more than 230 people. The Carer/Foster Carer award went to Lindsay Taylor, who supports young people in her care with practical skills and emotional warmth. The Mayor's Special Award was given to Les Southerton for his extensive charity work after retiring, including serving as the chair of the Tees Active Leisure board since 2015.
