Boston Heroes Awards 2024/2025: celebrating outstanding contributions to the community

The Boston Heroes 2024/2025 Awards Ceremony was held on the evening of Wednesday 16 July at St. Botolph’s Church in the heart of Boston, brought together community members, partners and local leaders to honour individuals and organisations who have made exceptional contributions to the Borough.

Hosted by Scott Dalton of BBC Radio Lincolnshire, the event recognised the dedication, compassion and the positive impact of those who go above and beyond to support others and strengthen the local community.

The Group Champion Award went to the Old Leake Community Hub. This volunteer-run space offers food, friendship, and support to reduce loneliness and improve wellbeing. Judges called it “a lifeline for the community.”

Alison Fairman received the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Greenyard Frozen. Alison has spent over 25 years helping Boston thrive. From leading Boston in Bloom to supporting local charities and preserving our town’s history, she’s made a lasting difference to the local area.

Dennis Watson was named Individual Champion for his work at Boston ABC boxing club. He’s credited for giving young people a safe and supportive place to grow, and judges praised his “real community spirit.”

The Young Person of the Year Award, sponsored by Fold Hill Foods, was awarded to Olivia Mumby-Croft. Olivia supported the Mayor throughout the year with kindness and reliability and she’s a great role model for young people across Boston.

Special recognition was also given to the following individuals and groups:

• Ernie Napier – for long-standing service with the Boston Preservation Trust
• Man v Fat – for promoting men’s health and raising funds for local causes
• Sarah Burton – for her work in community engagement and event organisation
• Chloe Ingamells – for her inspiring volunteer work with SEND children
• Patrick Clayton – for his life-saving actions in a medical emergency

The success of the Boston Heroes Awards was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: The White Hart Hotel, Greenyard Frozen, Fold Hill Foods and  FloraLincs.

We also extend our sincere thanks to our judging panel; Michael Morris (CEO, Tonic Health/Boston Youth Hub), Elizabeth Hopkins (CEO, Centrepoint Outreach), and Rob Whiley (Community Connector for Boston), for their thoughtful and thorough review of all nominations.

Councillor Emma Cresswell, Boston Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Communities said: “The Boston Heroes Awards serve as a powerful reminder of the strength, generosity and resilience that is in spades within our community.

“By recognising as many people who go above and beyond as possible, this annual event help us foster civic pride, which is so critical in making the borough a great place to live and work.

“I would like to thank all who participated in this year’s Boston Heroes campaign, whether by nominating, volunteering or attending, I look forward to seeing this important tradition continue in the years to come.”

For photos from 2024/2025 Boston Heroes Awards, please visit the council’s Facebook page.