Community champions celebrated at Harborough District Community Awards

The winners and runners-up of the Harborough District Community Awards were celebrated at a special ceremony at Kibworth Community Hub on 1 October 2026, recognising the people and organisations helping their communities thrive.

Residents were invited to nominate individuals and groups over the summer, with nominations assessed by panels including Harborough District Council officers, a representative from Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL), the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce, and members of the Harborough District Youth Council.

The winners are:

Voluntary and Community Group of the Year
Winner: Blooming Lutterworth
Runner-up: Fleckney Duckpond Players

Young Person of the Year (11–18) – presented by Harborough District Youth Council
Winner: Cecilia Till – Welland Park Academy
Runner-up: Student from Robert Smyth Academy
Runner-up: William Taylor – Rotary Club of Market Harborough

Volunteer of the Year (19–59)
Winner: Aaron Oldham – Dunton and Broughton United FC
Runner-up: Andrew Reeves - Teddington

Volunteer of the Year (60+)
Winner: Ernest Gamble – Volunteer in Houghton
Runner-up: Pippa Underwood - VASL

The Citizenship Cup
Winner: John Morison – Hallaton

Stronger Together: Workplace Impact Award
Winner: Lynne McConnachie – Leicestershire County Council
Runner-up: Chloe Goode - Craft-I-Trims

Business-Community Impact of the Year Award sponsored by the Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce
Winner: Market Harborough Building Society
Runner-up: Hinckley & Rugby Building Society (Lutterworth Branch)
Runner-up: The Roebuck – Market Harborough

Cllr Amanda Nunn, Cabinet lead for Wellbeing at Harborough District Council, said:

“Strong communities are built by people who give their time, energy, and support to others. These awards recognise their contributions and give us the chance to say thank you. It was inspiring to hear about the work of everyone who was shortlisted and to celebrate the difference they are making in their communities, as well as recognising this year’s winners.

“The nominees show what can be achieved when people come together and take action in their communities. Congratulations to everyone who was nominated — it is wonderful to see so many people making a difference across our district.”
 

Dr Gareth Thomas, President of Market Harborough Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said:

“Businesses have a vital role to play in the communities they are part of, and it’s great to see so many local organisations using their time, resources, and expertise to make a difference. We’re delighted to support these awards and celebrate businesses that are investing in their communities, building strong local connections and helping create a thriving place to live and work.”

The Harborough District Community Awards have been held annually since 2024, celebrating the people, groups and organisations whose contributions help make communities across the district stronger, more connected and more vibrant.