Hundreds of invited guests Hgathered at Bolton at Home ‘s annual Community Awards dinner, which took place on Thursday 13th November at the Premier Suite of Bolt on Wanderers’ Macron Stadium. The evening began with a welcome speech by Jon Lord OBE, Chief Executive of Bolton at Home, and Tracey Woods, Chairman of the Board, followed by a 3-course dinner – accompanied by some astounding ‘table entertainment’ provided by magicians Alan Hudson and Matt Windsor.
The award ceremony itself was hosted by Norman Prince, formerly of the Houghton Weavers, whose wry Northern humour was very well received by his audience.The winners of each category of the Community Awards were:
Star of Bolton Young Young Persons Housing Scheme Jordan Flanagan Bloomin’ marvellous gardening Most improved garden: Winner Patricia Dolan, runner-up Susan Pilkington Best garden: Winner Brian Sayers, runner-up Hulton Lanes Gardens Sparkling Environment Star Winner Johnson Fold Community Action Group, runner-up Harvey Scowcroft Healthy Community Star Winner team Deane Triathlon Community Club,runner-up Wonder Woman Rising Star Winner The Campbell/Cawdor Action Group, runners-up Kat Dobson and Maryann George Spirit of Youth Star Winner Lana Basnett, runner-up Nathan MacNamara Taking a Stand Star Winner Diane Jones, runner-up Ralph Hood Stronger Community Star Winner Greenway Centenary Group, runner-up Great Lever Connected Outstanding Achievement Star Winner Carol Fearnley of East field community group Fusion; runner-up Kath Kelly
The Judges’ Award went to Brian Herrity, who, sadly, died recently from cancer. There was an emotional moment as the award was collected by his wife Sylvia.
In his closing speech, CEO Jon Lord congratulated the winners, runners-up and nominees, saying ‘This is our best night of the year because it represents the incredible achievements of the people and partnerships that strengthen our communities and turn areas around’.