Throughout August and September, representatives from Northamptonshire Community Foundation and the North and West Northamptonshire Unitary Authorities have presented 57 community heroes across the county with Rose of Northamptonshire Awards.
First launched in 2021 by the High Sheriff’s Office, the Lord Lieutenancy, and what was at the time Northamptonshire County Council, the Rose of Northamptonshire Awards recognise and celebrate groups and individuals who work tirelessly to better their local communities.
Rachel McGrath, CEO of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, said: “re-launching the Rose of Northamptonshire Awards has been a wonderful opportunity to shine a light on unsung community heroes across the county, congratulations to all our worthy award winners.
“I’m very excited to say that this is not a one-off, the public will be able to nominate community champions again in Spring 2024.”
The awards initiative was re-launched in 2023 by a partnership between Northamptonshire Community Foundation and the North and West Northamptonshire Unitary Authorities, to shine a light on those whose dedication to their community often goes unnoticed or unacknowledged.
13. Scott Fitzsimmons
Rachel Mallows MBE DL, Chair of Northamptonshire Community Foundation, presenting Scott Fitzsimmons, Trustee at Glamis Hall for All and volunteer at Northants Fire & Rescue, Off the Streets, Crimestoppers, Wellingborough Ukrainian Refugee Support Group, with a Rose of Northamptonshire Award. Scott Fitzsimmons volunteers for several local organisations including Northants Fire & Rescue, Off the Streets, Crimestoppers, Wellingborough Ukrainian Refugee Support Group, and is a newly appointed trustee for Glamis Hall for All Photo: Submitted
14. Lee & Lorraine Lewis
Northamptonshire Lord-Lieutenant, James Saunders Watson Esq, presenting Lee and Lorraine Lewis, Founders of the Lewis Foundation, with their Rose of Northamptonshire Awards. Lee and Lorraine Lewis founded The Lewis Foundation to support cancer patients and those undergoing palliative care. The Foundation creates and delivers gift packs for cancer patients, providing these to fourteen hospitals in the Midlands. Photo: Submitted
15. Kathleen Soper & Marie Ryan
Northamptonshire Lord-Lieutenant, James Saunders Watson Esq, presenting sisters Kathleen Soper & Marie Ryan, volunteers at The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation, with their Rose of Northamptonshire Awards . Kathleen Soper and her sister Marie Ryan volunteer for The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation’s Monday Club, hosting weekly bingo sessions, checking in with and entertaining members Photo: Submitted
16. Graham & Liz Chapman
Northamptonshire Lord-Lieutenant, James Saunders Watson Esq, presenting Graham & Liz Chapman, volunteers at The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation, with their Rose of Northamptonshire Awards. Liz and Graham Chapman volunteer for The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation, providing a garden renovation and maintenance service for individuals who have experienced ill-health, bereavement, mental health struggles or who are elderly, who may not be able to maintain their gardens alone. Photo: Submitted