Celebrate a hero with our awards

The Community Awards ceremony recognises the many people and organisations that make Mid Sussex a unique place to live.

All too often, those people that make a positive difference to local life are taken for granted, and not praised and rewarded in the manner they should be.

This newspaper is offering you the opportunity to reward a deserving person or organisation within the community.

Gary Shipton, Editor In Chief of the Middy, praised the wonderful community spirit in Mid Sussex. People are so supportive of each other - and this is a tremendous opportunity to recognise so many unsung local heroes,” he said.

“I do hope people won’t be shy in sending in nominations. This is a great chance to celebrate so much of what makes Mid Sussex such a special place in which to live and work.”

With 15 awards available to choose from, a number of community heroes are set to be recognised. They are: Best Volunteer, Best Community Person (sponsored by 1st Central Insurance), Local Hero, Outstanding Bravery, True Inspiration, Animal Magic, Friends of the Environment, Health Hero, Charity of the Year, Healthworker Award, Best Neighbour, Special Recognition, Sports Team of the Year, Mini Marvel and Young Sports Person.

The award winners will be joined by those that nominated them and the event’s sponsors at the ceremony, which will take place at Clair Hall, Haywards Heath, on Wednesday June 18. Let the community know who deserves credit, whether they are an outstanding neighbour, friend or volunteer.

What sports team, school or charity inspires the people of Mid Sussex?

Who is a true local hero, or deserves special recognition from the newspaper?

Last year’s Mid Sussex Times Community Awards was the inaugural awards ceremony, and was deemed a huge success by all in attendance.

It was an inspiring evening that highlighted the very best of Mid Sussex, and was humorous, emotional and enjoyable.

Among the winners was Dr Philip Hart of Newtons Surgery in Haywards Heath, who was nominated by Carol Simmonds. Dr Hart was cheered and applauded as he walked to the stage. He said: “I am very privileged to have a job where I can make a difference to people’s lives.”

Look out for more announcements and details of how to nominate in future issues of the Mid Sussex Times.

If anyone is interested in sponsoring a category, email [email protected] or [email protected]