Unsung heroes and inspirational community groups celebrated recently as the Rochdale Borough Sports and Culture Awards ceremony made a triumphant return.
The inspirational achievements of people, clubs and organisations working in sport and culture across Rochdale over the last 12 months have been showcased at the Rochdale Borough Sports and Culture Awards.
Alkrington Tennis Club picked up Community Club of the Year while Caldershaw Primary School lifted the School Commitment to PE & Sports Award in front of 200 people at Heywood Civic Centre.
Myron Szymanskyj was named Disability Physical Activity Champion with 17 awards presented on the night to celebrate the rich diversity of skill, dedication and commitment shown day-to-day by local people.
The returning awards, hosted by Sue Devaney, continues to play an important part of the Rochdale Borough community calendar and shine a spotlight on the work of people in the Borough.
The shortlist was compiled from nominations submitted by the community based on achievements of individuals, clubs and community groups over the past 12 months, with the winners chosen by a panel of independent judges which includes key people within arts, health, education, culture, sports and community support in the Borough.
The judges had the difficult task of selecting one winner in each category from the fantastic achievements of nominees over the past 12 months.
Andy King, Chief Executive at Your Trust, the independent charity behind the awards said:
"We’re really proud to have hosted this special event and are delighted that the awards have returned this year after a couple of years break due to the pandemic.
"It was a fantastic night celebrating the heroes of sport and culture across the borough.
"We know that sport and culture played a big part in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of local residents throughout the pandemic and it’s important to recognise the contribution that local people, clubs and groups make to the community.
"Our congratulations go to all winners and shortlisted nominees”.
Cllr Susan Smith, Cabinet member for communities, culture and co-operatives at Rochdale Borough Council, said:
"The Sports and Culture Awards makes me extremely proud of the outstanding people that we have within Rochdale borough.
"It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening recognising the outstanding achievement and incredible dedication of local people and honouring the community champions who do so much to support local residents.
"I’d like to congratulate all winners and nominees, and also say a big thank you to all those involved in making the Rochdale Borough Sports and Culture Awards event possible."
Full list of winners:
Through UK Disability History Month and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we're focusing on efforts to make physical activity truly inclusive for disabled people.
An example of embedding the Physical Literacy approach in education in Oldham.
From rising stars to community heroes, the evening highlighted the individuals and organisations making a difference in the city’s vibrant sports scene.