Inspiring heroes have been recognised for their devotion and positive contributions to the local community at the Mayor of Hertsmere’s Civic Awards Ceremony 2024/2025.
The annual awards recognise the outstanding performance, activities and dedication of people and groups living and working in our local communities, who voluntarily give their time to improve the lives of Hertsmere residents.
Mayor, Councillor Richard Butler, presented seven awards to worthy winners from across the borough at a glittering ceremony on Sunday 27 April at the DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree.
Councillor Richard Butler, Mayor of Hertsmere said:
This was a fantastic opportunity to meet the different individuals and groups who have been recognised for their hard work and contribution to society. They include charity founders, volunteers and community campaigners who demonstrate the rich cultural diversity of our residents. This is why our 50th Anniversary celebrations last year were so colourful – our people really do make Hertsmere a wonderful place to live and work.
Here are the winners of this year’s seven Civic Awards:
Borehamwood Brass Band for their outstanding support over forty years, raising funds for the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). They show outstanding commitment to the local community by organising and performing at different events, including wonderful Christmas celebrations.
Bushey Festival team have been running the arts and music festival for over forty years. The small group of volunteers run the summer festival along with many other events throughout the year, which requires a lot of work, collaborating with other community groups across the borough.
Cheryl Eldridge for her work supporting residents at Fountain Court, Borehamwood - a retirement housing complex. For over 20 years Cheryl has been helping them with practical tasks and also organises social events and special treats.
Janice Neal for her role as Chair of the Parkfield Medical Centre Patients Group was nominated for all of her hard work in supporting local people, arranging a wide variety of activities, including the monthly ‘chatter tables’ at the Wyllyotts Centre.
John Byrne for his outstanding work as owner and Director of 442 Sports. John has been recognised for his commitment to delivering sport to young people within our local communities.
Michelle Gersh as Director of Green Connections Community Interest Company. Michelle was nominated for her fantastic work in blending clinical care with occupational therapy, using her passion for horticulture and nature.
In addition, The Dave Rankin Award for community safety was presented to Neil from the Community Security Trust who the judges felt, are an integral part of our community provision. They have gone the extra mile to make Hertsmere a healthier, happier, safer place to live, work and visit. Much of Neil’s work focuses on supporting our local Jewish communities.
Each award winner’s story is available to watch on YouTube
