“The community of Luton is special” – that was the view of one winner as the town celebrated the achievements of local at the Luton & Bedfordshire Community Awards 2023.
Now in its 14th year, the awards bash hosted by the Community Interest Luton charity, saw the unsung heroes of the area recognised at a glitzy event at Venue Central on Leagrave Road.
Named Volunteer of the Year, Mohammed Tariq was one of many Lutonians that scooped prizes on the night and he remarked how “the community of Luton is special”.
Also among the winners was Phil Rainey (pictured above), who was honoured with the Helping Hand award. She said of the event: “There are so many fantastic people here that really care. Really care about each other, really care about our economy, our town and all the different bits that make it work – family, art, community, learning, education and just Luton.
“It’s just such a vibrant town. It’s just amazing. And the community awards, they just showcase everything. It’s amazing.”
There were inspirational stories galore as the nominees and winners were read out, including Ilm Hussain, who won the Young Hero Award, and Steve Gill who was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for 15 years of tireless work with the charity Noah.
The full list of winners were:
Mohammed Tariq – Volunteer of the Year
Gail Windrass – Role Model of the Year
Stephen Wood – Business Person of the Year
Phyl Rainey – Helping Hand
Hina Shafi – Mark West Award for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.
Elliot Quince – Charity Champion
Paul Parsons – Service with a Smile
Chris Gibbons – Healthcare Hero
Kerryann Spencer – Individual Achievement
Jo Westram – Educator
Dr Talib Abubacker – Caring Hero
Penrose Options and Caraline – joint winners of the Charity of the Year award
Golden Arrow Archery – Community Project of the Year
Luton Grappling Club – Community Business of the Year
Boxing Saves Lives – The Mayor’s Award
Vandalism Begins at Home – Arts Award
Wilder Futures – Heritage Award
Phil Boyd, Ant Johnson and Dave Parr, of Bedfordshire Police – Community Champion
Caraline – The Winner of Winners Award
