MORE than 100 people packed out Vale Royal Abbey on Friday night to celebrate a special group of people.

Back for a second year, the Community ReAwards again shone a light on the community’s volunteers – giving them the recognition they deserve.

Eight awards were handed out, after judges took on the difficult task of narrowing down a vast array of nominations into shortlists.

Organiser Sam Newey said: “We were delighted with the response to this years Community ReAwards, from the overwhelming nominations, bringing incredible stories of volunteering and acts of giving in our community, to the support on the night.

“With over 100 attendees at the special ‘Thank You’ and awards evening, hosted by Vale Royal Abbey, the room was filled with excitement, laughs, support and a few tears too.

“Showcasing the amazing work of volunteers, charities and community groups, it was easy to see the impact their work has on not just the Northwich and Vale Royal community but further afield too, as we learnt of our nominees work championing support worldwide.”

Sam also paid tribute to the evening’s generous sponsors, including Radio Northwich, Vale Royal Abbey, Roberts Bakery, Rotary, Nalco Water, Simply Cakes by Amanda, Resilient Kid, Mini Me Yoga, Kay’s Kitchen & Lillian’s Delights, October Creative Ltd and Lisa’s Balloons.

The Guardian also sponsored an award for large charity group of the year, won by The Joshua Tree.

Tiny Steps picked up small charity group of the year, with community first responder Chris Railton winning the Outstanding Leadership award.

Rotarian John Walton won the Impact Award, Debbie Dixon won voluntary fundraiser of the year and Beth Walker took home young volunteer.

Mike Hornby was awarded a lifetime achievement award for his work at Weaverham Forest Primary School while Billie Pickstock won the judges’ award for community service.

The Community ReAwards will return in January 2021, with more details to follow in the coming weeks.

IN FULL: Your Community ReAwards 2020 shortlist

Charity Group of the Year (over 50), sponsored by Northwich Guardian

  • Winner: The Joshua Tree
  • Runner-up: Northwich Sapphires Netball Club 

Charity Group of the Year (under 50), sponsored by Radio Northwich

  • Winner: Tiny Steps
  • Runner-up: Re-Engage

Outstanding Leadership Award, sponsored by Northwich Rotary 

  • Winner: Chris Railton
  • Runner-up: Susan Williams

Impact Award, sponsored by Roberts Bakery 

  • Winner: John Walton
  • Runner-up: Judith Lowe

Voluntary Fundraiser of the Year, sponsored by Vale Royal Abbey

  • Winner: Deborah Dixon
  • Runner-up: Rachael King

Young Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Mini Me Yoga 

  • Winner: Beth Walker
  • Runner-up: Andre Adams

Lifetime Achievement Award

  • Winner: Mike Hornby
  • Runner-up: John Buckley 

Judges Award for Community Service

  • Winner: Billie Pickstock