Awards ceremony recognises local achievers

Local individuals, groups and organsations have been recognised for their contribution to Newtown at an awards ceremony.

The annual Celebration of Newtown Awards celebrated the efforts of many people from the town.

Organised by Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council, "The event aimed to recognise and celebrate individuals, groups, and organisations that have made a positive impact on this community and the local area over the past year."

Cllr John Byrne, Mayor of Newtown, said: “Building upon the success of previous Celebration of Newtown Awards, we gather once again to honour and celebrate the remarkable talents, acts of kindness, and accomplishments of our Newtown residents and businesses.

"It's truly heartening to see all of you gathered here tonight. Throughout this year, we've witnessed an array of inspiring stories among the nominees being honoured tonight, shining a spotlight on the talent and compassion within our community.” 

The Mayor’s chosen charities, The Salvation Army and Dementia Friendly Newtown, both delivered speeches highlighting the positive work they deliver in the community.

The first award of the evening was given in recognition of the collaborative work between Citizens Advice Powys and Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn Town Council. Citizens Advice Powys presented the award to POBL.

The awards were presented to:
· Mid Wales Model Engineering Society
· Newtown WI
· Montgomeryshire Family Crisis Centre
· Happy Holidays - Hub of Hope Foundation
· Newtown and District Civic Society
· Treowen CP Primary School
· 2nd Newtown Guides Unit
· N-Able
· The Hafren
· Newtown Silver Band
· Mid Wales Wildcats Basketball Club
· Penygloddfa CP School
· Cultivate

There was also a special recognition award to honour the 150th anniversary of the Newtown Fire Service.

Awards were also given for Volunteer of the Year, Young Person or Youth Group of the Year, Business of the Year (Innovation and Enterprise, Third Sector, and Leisure Tourism and Hospitality), Climate and Sustainability Award, Sports Award and Creative Arts Contribution Award.

The awards were presented by Cllr John Byrne. He said: “Your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to improving Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn do not go unnoticed. You should be immensely proud of your achievements.”

The full list of award winners are:

Sports Award
Winner: Newtown White Stars F.C.
Runner Up: Stephen Lewis

Climate and Sustainability Award
Winner: Circular Economy Mid Wales (CEMW)
Runner Up: Flying Start – Baby Bank

Young Person/Youth Group Award
Winner – Newtown Army Cadets
Runner Up – Hope Allport & George Wareing

Business of the Year Award - Innovation & Enterprise
Winner – Textile Junkies
Runner Up – Mid Wales Photobooths

Business of the Year Award – Third Sector
Winner: Rekindle
Runner Up: All About Newtown

Business of the Year Award - Leisure, Tourism & Hospitality
Winner - Hummingbird
Runner Up: Costa Coffee Newtown

Volunteer of the Year Award
Winner: Christine Evans
Runner Up: Audrey Leggit

Creative Arts Contribution Award
Winner: Knit & Natter
Runners Up: Hafren Community Choir.

Closing the evening with a special award, Graham Jennings, a recently retired PCSO in the town, was presented with an Honorary Freemanship of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn award.

Cllr Richard Edwards, Chair of the Economy & Environment Committee, announced said: “Graham Jennings is a familiar face to all residents of our town. For many years, he has been a source of reassurance and friendliness, leaving an indelible mark on our community. Graham's contributions extend far beyond his presence; he has played a vital role in both educating and safeguarding us.”

The evening ended with a special mention of the 50th anniversary of the town council. Cllr John Byrne said: "The Town Council stands as a beacon of advocacy and support for all who choose to live, learn, work, and visit our town. We are committed to amplifying the voices of our residents, ensuring that every individual feels valued, heard, and empowered."