Congratulations to our 2024 Winners
We are proud to announce the Mid Sussex Applauds 2024 winners for the following categories:
Category
Volunteer of the Year Award (Joint Winner)
Description
Recognising those who have selflessly made a difference to their community.
Joint Winners
Clare Stacey
For 17 years, Claire has served as bandmaster for Burgess Hill Marching Youth, making music education accessible to all. She set up annual band camps, awards ceremonies and music theory lessons while expanding the band's sections and membership. Despite juggling a full-time job and family commitments, Claire dedicates four hours weekly to the band, orchestrating rehearsals, preparing music, and co-ordinating performances. She fosters an inclusive environment, particularly supporting young people with autism, who thrive in the band. Claire's dedication has provided countless children with valuable life skills in a supportive and inclusive setting.Kelvin Meek
Kelvin's decision to train as a Peer Mentor, drawing from his own experiences with mental health challenges, showcases his bravery and resilience. He dedicates countless volunteer hours to providing empathetic support and practical tools to clients, always prioritising their well-being. Additionally, Kelvin co-leads a client conservation group, fostering purpose, community engagement, and outdoor enjoyment. His contributions are invaluable.
Sponsor
Category
Community Project of the Year
Description
A project supporting local people that has triumphed in our community.
Winner
Angling and Mental Health Initiative, Bedelands, and Badgers Wood near Hickstead
This fantastic organisation welcomes people of all ages who want to either start fishing or improve their skills. The passionate organisers aim to make fishing accessible to everyone by sharing their knowledge. They provide a supportive and encouraging environment where people can learn various aspects of fishing, from setting up to catching and caring for fish. Their efforts to get people outdoors and into a relaxing environment greatly benefit the local community. Their dedication extends to serving SEN groups, mental health groups, social prescribers, and youth communities, making a significant impact on a wide range of individuals. Their compassionate approach not
only teaches fishing skills but also helps build confidence in participants, empowering them to explore new horizons in a nurturing environment.
Sponsor
Category
Young Hero of the Year
Description
Celebrates the remarkable achieves of those under the age of 18.
Winner
Bodhi Peckham
Bodhi's battle with leukaemia touched the nation's heart. Despite undergoing gruelling treatment, he maintained his cheerful spirit. On the day of his missed birthday party, he was in the hospital, donning a pair of pants on his head. This sparked the viral #pantstoleukemia campaign, which was followed by a grand pants party at Danny House in Hurstpierpoint.
The community rallied together, decorating the area with orange and blue bunting, and even inspiring the local bakery to create themed doughnuts. Bodhi, with his infectious bravery and sense of fun, helped plan the party alongside his dedicated team, incorporating all his favourite things. The event successfully raised over £20,000 for Leukaemia UK.
Sponsor
Category
Business in the Community Award
Description
A business which supports of makes a positive contribution to benefit and enhance community life.
Winner
Mad Dog Coffee Lounge
Mad Dog Coffee Lounge is a new business in the area that has quickly established itself as a hub for community support and inclusivity.
From its opening day, they have been dedicated to giving back, offering their space for various community activities and events.
Owner Russ is passionate about blending community warmth with a love for coffee and charity. They actively support local causes, with 20% of coffee sales going to charities chosen by customers. The coffee served is ethically sourced and packaged in recyclable materials. Russ and his team regularly come up with new initiatives to spread messages of love, support, diversity, and community involvement. They've also fostered collaborations with local small businesses and young entrepreneurs. The atmosphere is welcoming to all, including furry companions. Russ's commitment to community uplift makes him an inspiration, and it's hoped that Mad Dog Coffee Lounge will continue its positive impact for years to come.
Sponsor
Category
Community for All Award
Description
A person, group or business that has done the most to work in harmony with others to promote diversity, equality, and inclusion with the aim to positively discourage discrimination.
Winner
Derek and Lindsay Shurvell - Emmaus Youth Club
Lindsay and Derek Shurvell have played a crucial role in the enduring success of the Emmaus Youth Club in Sharpthorne & West Hoathly for over 22 years. Their selfless dedication as volunteers has ensured the club not only remains operational but also offers relevant, engaging, and enjoyable activities for its attendees. Despite managing two businesses, Lindsay and Derek consistently introduce new initiatives to enrich the club's offerings, demonstrating their unwavering commitment.
The youth club serves as a vital social hub for young people in the community, providing invaluable opportunities for social interaction and development. Without it, the social growth of these young individuals would likely suffer. Members of the club hold Lindsay and Derek in high regard, a testament to their effective leadership and management.
Sponsor
Category
Environment and Climate Champion
Description
An individual or group who has demonstrated a commitment to delivering sustainability initiatives which will help to combat climate change or enhance the natural environment.
Winner
Greener Hassocks and Ditchling
Greener Hassocks and Ditchling is a community-driven initiative addressing the climate emergency. Through practical support and collaborative efforts with groups like Hurst Rethink, they engage residents in climate action. From repair cafes to flood reduction projects, they promote sustainability and community resilience. Their diverse activities, including wildlife walks and climate hub gatherings, empower individuals to make a difference. With plans for initiatives like a 'Library of Things,' they aim to reduce consumption and promote resource sharing. These efforts not only benefit the environment but also foster community pride and wellbeing. Greener Hassocks and Ditchling exemplify the power of local action in addressing global challenges.
Sponsor
Category
Community Hero of the Year Award
Description
Someone who goes to remarkable lengths to help others.
Winner
Fiona Haywood
Fiona Haywood, Dementia Services Manager at Age UK East Grinstead, is dedicated to improving the lives of those with dementia. With her personalised approach, she ensures each person feels valued and supported. Fiona and her team provide a nurturing environment for clients and their carers, offering practical and emotional support. Recognising the lack of caregiver services in East Grinstead, Fiona actively engages with the community, connecting people with relevant support. As CEO of Being Neighbourly, Fiona leads volunteers in providing essential assistance, such as grocery shopping and friendly phone calls. Her quick response to urgent needs, like organising food parcels, demonstrates her commitment as a Community Hero.
Sponsor
Category
Lifetime Achievement Award
Description
An individual who has worked tirelessly and constantly for the benefit of others over a sustained period of time.
Margaret Taylor
For many years, Margaret dedicated herself to serving her community in various roles. Starting as a Sunday School teacher in Brighton and Hurstpierpoint Methodist Churches, Margaret later volunteered with the Girls’ Brigade in 1983, eventually rising to the position of Commissioner in 2007, overseeing five Companies.
Despite her retirement in 2000, Margaret continued her service as a volunteer at St Lawrence Primary School in Hurstpierpoint, initially assisting with reading and later taking on various tasks as needed. Additionally, Margaret volunteers at the Melting Pot Café in Court Bushes, Hurstpierpoint, where she helps serve teas, coffees, and cakes alongside a dedicated team.
Her commitment to serving others and her community is truly commendable.
Sponsor
Media Sponsors
