Awards for town’s heroes

RESIDENTS have been reminded that polls are still open for this year’s Gateshead Awards, with shortlists for categories ranging from young achievers to sports club of the year.

The awards recognise individuals, not-for-profits or community groups and organisations that have made a positive impact on the residents or workers in Gateshead. Self-nominations are not accepted.

Nominations for Volunteer of the Year include Liz Smith, who has been a volunteer with Ryton Cross Community Society Ltd (RCCS) since 2018.

She also coordinates a monthly memory cafe for locals living with dementia and their carers for a morning of creative activities.

In addition, she has helped to raise cash for community Christmas decorations.

Maya Baggaley is also up this year for Young Achiever of the Year. Maya has volunteered with the Gateshead West Uniform Scheme which helps to carry out school uniform repairs.

She also supports a monthly group managed by Down Syndrome North East.

High Fell Amateur Boxing Club is also up for Sports Club of the Year. It has been nominated for aiming to ensure that as many people as possible have a chance to participate in boxing.

Dingy Butterflies have also been nominated in the Tackling Climate Change category for their Bees of Bensham project, to help record and support Bensham and Saltwell’s pollinator population.

In all, 27 organisations or individuals have been shortlisted for a Gateshead Award in 2024. Members of the public can vote for their favourites and find a full list of nominees via the council’s website. Voting closes this Sunday, May 12.