Judges had an incredibly difficult time sorting through the nominations for this year’s Pride of South Holland Awards.
Finally, it came to the presentations recently at the South Holland Centre.
Amid brilliant performances from Diamondz Dance, the Spalding Rock Choir and singer Gabriella Pineda-Rodrigues, the awards were dished out by Vicki Michelle and Barry Fry.
It was organised by Jan Whitbourn who also compared the ceremony at the South Holland Centre.
“A huge thank you goes to everyone who made it possible, including all the amazing sponsors,” she said.
“It’s been amazing to hear the stories and everyone deserves to be here,” said Vicki, best known for her role as Evette in the hugely popular sitcom ‘Allo Allo’. She has a host of other appearances including a recent spell in East
Enders. “It’s a brilliant event and a great idea.”
Barry Fry was among those to pay tribute to Jan after a decade of organising them, only missing one year during the lockdowns.
“Jan is amazing,” he said. “What she does for the community she does with a passion, so we’re all lucky to have her.”
CHARITY WORKER AWARD – Sponsored by Couns Jack Tyrrell and Jo Reynolds.
A regular fundraiser for both the Spalding Flower Parade and veterans’ charities took home the Charity Worker award.
David Mustoe (left) was chosen as the winner by councillors Jo Reynolds and Jack Tyrrell.
“He’s amazing,” said Jan Whitbourn. “With events he’s always smack in the middle of it and so helpful with any problems.
“He always looks to do what he can.”
The runner up was Susan Guy who has fundraised for a host of charities in the area.
She was unable to attend with Erica Horn collecting the award on her behalf.
SENIOR CITIZEN AWARD – Sponsored by Calthrops Solicitors
Ganshyam Seta was named the Senior Citizen of the Year sponsored by Calthrops Solicitors.
The owner of The Woodlands Hotel helps with a host of charities including donating any leftovers to the homeless.
“He’s humble, professional, hard working and caring,” said Calthrop’s Julia Cole. “He makes sure every charity he is involved with is looked after.”
Judy Dolton was named as the runner up.
“She’s become a figurehead for a friendship circle hosting social events,” said Julia. “Judy’s helped boost a host of friendships.
“She’s a lovely caring lady who doesn’t realise what she’s achieved in the community.”
YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARDS – Sponsored by Molsom and Associates Opticians
Young Achiever Ollie Ford was up on the stage twice.
Ollie (12) was recognised for his work raising over £3,000 for homeless charities, buying them presents at Christmas, even taking part in the Big Sleep Out recently.
A member of Spalding United juniors, he was asked to join in with the sports award too.
“He’s one of a kind,” said Andy Molsom, of sponsors Molsom and Associates Opticians.
The runners up was Matthew Duncan.
He regularly helps out with the Vernatt’s Nature Reserve, helping maintain it as a place of peace and quiet.
“He’s a fantastic asset who has a passion for the outdoors,” said Andy.
“He’s there every weekend doing whatever needs to be done and is always the first volunteer to put their hand up.
“He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of nature.”
COMMUNITY HERO AEWARD – Sponsored by Coun Andrew Woolf
Three Spalding teens who stepped in to stop a sexual assault were named community heroes.
Charlie Burley, Callum Smith and Ben Tyler helped look after the victim and secure a conviction of the perpetrator, winning a national award from the police.
Award sponsor Coun Andrew Woolf called the trio’s bravery ‘ a real act of heroism’.
With one of the trio recently suffering a bereavement in the family, in solidarity all three declined to attend the ceremony with Callum’s mum Sarah Davies and Ben’s mum Victoria Tyler collecting their award.
The runner up was Chris Schofield for his work in the area.
“He’s done everything for the community and village of Pinchbeck I can think of at the age of 82,” Coun Woolf said.
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD – Sponsored by Springfields
Two amazing local groups were recognised in the Special Achievement category.
Boxes Of Hope have graduated from helping Ukraine following its invasion by Russia to providing all kinds of support for every walk of life from its Holbeach base.
“They’ve made a special dedication for not just South Holland but the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond,” said Simon Stone, of sponsors Springfields. “They’re truly the Pride of South Holland.
“It’s run by a remarkable individual initially inspired by events in Ukraine.
“It’s a really dedicated team effort that’s selfless and deserving.”
The runners up were the East Elloe Trust which looks after the community-run Holbeach Hospital.
“They’ve been making a difference in South Holland for the last 35 years,” said Mr Stone. “Assisted by a committee they’ve shown endless dedication to the patients and families of those at Holbeach Hospital.”
SERVICE WITH A SMILE – Sponsored by Coun Elizabeth Sneath
Black Cat Buses took the Service With a Smile award as decided by Coun Elizabeth Sneath.
“They provide such a good service for South Holland,” she said. “They always provide service with a smile and plenty of friendly banter.
“Many of the bus users are older and may live alone, so a cheerful contact is vital.”
They were unable to attend.
The runner up Laura Osborn works at New Look in Spalding and who was also unable to attend due to being at a wedding.
“In a world of negativity Laura is a powerful antidote,” Coun Sneath said. “She leaves a lasting impression long after she’s left the store.”
CARING NEIGHBOUR AWARD – Sponsored by Coun Manzur Hasan and Spalding Round Table
Angela Ablett’s work with the Sezanne Walk Community Centre saw her earn the Caring Neighbour Award.
“Her positive influence makes her a true role model in the community,” said Coun Manzur Hasan who sponsored the award alongside the Spalding Round Table represented by Martin Ulyatt and Dr Sloan. “Angela makes a huge contribution to her neighbourhood.”
The runner up was Pinchbeck’s John Paling who had written a poem about the event which he performed.
“He’s amazing and does so much in his community,” said Jan Whitbourn. “He runs a number of clubs but I don’t know how he has the time.”
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD – Sponsored by Woodhead Brothers Morrisons
Vanessa Browning was named Volunteer of the Year for her many projects in the community focussing particularly on areas such as homelessness and mental health.
“Most people know Vanessa as she’s always around town doing what she does best, supporting those in needs,” said Andy Modd of sponsors Woodhead Brothers Morrisons. “She hosts many support groups, walks around Spalding and promotes good mental health.
“She gives up her Christmas Day to cook dinners for others, collects donations for food, bedding and clothing for the homeless, often out at night supporting them.
“She’s a shining star who looks to help people overcome their dark and difficult days.”
The runners up was Sally Pilgrim particularly for her work with Spalding Academy students.
“She’s an inspiration for her sheer passion and dedication,” Mr Modd said. “She has such aspirations for young people with whom she develops a positive relationship.”
The organisers didn’t know until the event that Sally is the daughter of Special Award winner Jane Pearson (see below).
COMMUNITY SPORTS AWARD – Sponsored by Coun Paul Redgate
Spalding United lifted another trophy this year as they took home the Community Sports award.
A number of the club’s volunteers took to the stage with the Northern League Division One trophy alongside Barry Fry.
“They do so much for the community,” said award sponsor and judge Coun Paul Redgate.
“They are a source of pride for Spalding, uniting fans and forging a sense of belonging. Their performances on the pitch have helped create a sense of spirit and community.
“They support in charitable causes and helping those in need.
“The players and staff are role models for our young people demonstrating where you can get with hard work and dedication in sport and beyond.
“Spalding United truly embodies community spirit and deserve the recognition.
“Their commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive and supportive environment makes a lasting impact on the community.”
The runner up was Luke Orton who has made telling contributions to Spalding Tennis Club on and off the courts, despite only taking up the sport in the last few years.
The 15-year-old is already ranked 11th for under 16s in Lincolnshire and 14th for under 18s.
When he’s not playing he’s frequently helping the younger players in the club.
“He’s achieved far more in his short time being local sport than you can imagine,” Coun Redgate said. “He took it up in 2022 and he’s excelled.
“He’s working hard with other youngsters, coaching and encouraging and mentoring them and allowing opportunities he’s seen have helped himself grow.”
BAKKAVOR AWARD
Bakkavor’s Local Community Champions were Little Miracles and Carole Baker.
“There are many organisations and volunteers help Spalding be the town it is today,” said Millie Gent from the firm. “Without that continued positive support we wouldn’t have half the events in the town.”
Carole Baker won the top award for a host of work in the community including with the Girl Guiding movement.
“This lady has helped people and showed her true self to the people of South Holland,” said Miss Gent.
The runners up were Little Miracles.
“They give so much work in supporting families going through difficulties. It’s run by parents and volunteers to support that they truly understand.
“They’ve raised huge amounts of money to support themselves,” continued Miss Gent.
SPECIAL AWARD
A special Pride award was presented to Jane Pearson who led the campaign to Bring Matthew Flinders Home.
After his remains were found during building work in London, Jane and her team of volunteers launched the campaign to bring the famous explorer back to his home village of Donington.
It culminated in his re-interment in a ceremony that made headlines around the world.
Jan Whitbourn said of Jane: “She went more than the extra mile and worked every waking hour to try and bring Matthew Flinders home.
“She was the driving force behind a brilliant team of volunteers.”
Jane herself told the ceremony: “It’s been a great project.
“It has been a team effort with many involved.
“It’s wonderful to receive this recognition.”
