A special ceremony last Friday (10 September) took place at Selby Abbey to honour those in the community who went above and beyond to support their communities through the difficulties of 2020, which included the Covid-19 pandemic.
Lead Executive Member for Communities and Economic Development, Cllr David Buckle said: “These awards are a brilliant way to highlight those in our community who went above and beyond to help and support other people during the Covid pandemic.
“There have been prescriptions collected, shielding people supported, shopping delivered, and support offered in a great many different ways. Throughout the last 12 months our community has really rallied round those who have struggled, which has been really inspiring.
“The community spirit we’ve seen has been a beacon of hope and these awards are one small way that residents and Selby District Council have been able to say thank you.”
Winners were:
Volunteer of the Year Award (over 18)
For an individual who has given their time freely and unselfishly for the benefit of their community
Gold – Cynthia Wright
Silver – Jackie Butterworth
Bronze – Lisa Rofidi
Inspiring Young Star Awards (under 18)
For an individual young person who shown the best positive example to their community in 2020
Gold – Amelia Hewitt
Silver – Harrison Buckley
Bronze – Isabella & Hermione Fennell and Theodore Lighten (joint third place)
Shining through the Pandemic Award
For an individual who has overcome the challenges of the pandemic and made a difference to your local community
Gold – David Turner
Silver – Paul Rathbone
Bronze – Val & John Walker
Volunteer Group of the Year Award
For a local volunteer Group that has helped your community in 2020
Gold – Riccall Covid-19 Support Group
Silver – 1st All Saints Sherburn in Elmet Scout Group
Bronze – Tadcaster Community Action Group
Local Business Making a Difference Award
For a local business that has made a difference to your community in 2020
Gold – ARC Workwear
Silver – Mr Roast
Bronze – Nunns Accounting Services Ltd
Cllr Buckle also thanked others involved in the awards ceremony, which more than 100 people attended: “I’d like to thank the singer Leanne Jeffers, who performed at the event and the judges involved in choosing the winners – a particularly difficult job – and the presenters who came along on the evening – Selby District Council’s Chief Executive Janet Waggott, the Rt. Revd John Thomson, Bishop of Selby, Selby District Council’s chairman Cllr John Duggan, Cllr Richard Musgrave and Jan Garrill, Chief Executive of Two Ridings Community Foundation.”
There was also special recognition of the District’s Community Support Organisations: Sherburn Coronavirus Aid Group, Tadcaster Volunteer Cars & Services Association, Selby District AVS. These three Community Support Organisations which supported our communities with the range of issues that the lockdowns brought.
Winners received:
Individual Category Awards – Gold £100 and a Shining Star Trophy, Silver £50, Bronze £25
Volunteer Group of the Year Award – Gold £200 and a Shining Star Trophy, Silver £100, Bronze £50.
Business Making a Difference Award Gold £200 and a Shining Star Trophy, Silver £100, Bronze £50.
All winners per category also received a celebratory Selby Shines pin badge and a framed achievement certificate.