2024 Winners

Overall PRIDE OF GEDLING AWARD 2024,
sponsored by The Wilkins Group

Winner: Mapperley and Arnold Rotary Club

The overall Pride of Gedling Award Winner is Mapperley and Arnold Rotary Club, recognised for their remarkable impact on the local community. The club also won this year’s Pride of Gedling Community Project Award. You can find out more about the club in the Community Project Award section, further down this page.

Business in the Community Award, sponsored by Nottinghamshire County Council

Winner: Number 1 Sandwich Bar

For over 20 years, Melanie Wyatt has been a cornerstone of the Netherfield community, running Number 1 Sandwich Bar, while supporting local causes. A breast cancer survivor, she has raised thousands of pounds for the Breast Institute and Maggie’s at City Hospital, organising charity events like tombolas and raffles. Melanie consistently goes above and beyond, making meals for those in need, contributing to community events and helping others without seeking recognition.

Community Hero Award, sponsored by Persimmon Homes Nottingham

Winner: Ian West

Ian is a true pillar of the Bestwood Village community, dedicating countless hours to enhancing the area and uplifting those around him. He selflessly engages in litter picking, clearing overgrown hedges and planting flowers, all at his own expense.

Ian has recently completed a sponsored walk to Portugal, to raise funds for Guide Dogs, having supported numerous charities throughout his life. He was still out in Portugal at the time of the ceremony, so the award was collected on Ian’s behalf by his brother Simon.

Outstanding Community Project, sponsored by Jigsaw Homes

Winner: Mapperley and Arnold Rotary Club

The Club has made an incredible impact on the local community over the past 18 months, supporting and funding various initiatives, including youth development through outward bound programmes, maintaining the gardens at Haywood House and running the Gedling Memory Café.

They have also contributed to mental health support via The Hike with Mike Foundation, literacy projects in local schools and providing resources for school teams. Their community outreach extends to Sharewear clothing collections, Arnold Foodbank support and more, demonstrating their dedication to improving lives across Gedling and beyond.

The Environmental Hero Award, sponsored by The Wilkins Group

Winner: Erika Jones

Erika serves as a vital link between the Friends of Breck Hill Park group, the community and Gedling Borough Council. Over the past few years, she has contributed to several initiatives including the development of a new playground.

Erika’s multifaceted role encompasses administration, leadership and hands-on work, including planting and weeding in the park. Her dedication has significantly enhanced the park’s accessibility, leading to its recognition with a Green Flag Award for three consecutive years. Erika’s efforts, alongside the Friends group, have transformed Breck Hill Park into a welcoming haven for both the community and local wildlife.

Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award, sponsored by Gladstone MRM Ltd.

Winner: Positively Empowered Kids CIC

Positively Empowered Kids, led by Jackie, Claire and their dedicated team, is an innovative organisation committed to enhancing the wellbeing of children and young people in Gedling. Their annual festival connects local youth with vital support resources.

They empower young people to proactively manage their mental health and have organised intergenerational workshops, community fun days, and mindfulness activities, promoting health and happiness for all ages.

Dylan Barker Young Person of the Year Award, sponsored by Mellors Group

Winner: Kaysey Farnsworth

A few years ago, Kaysey’s father was involved in a fire, resulting in severe burns to his hands, face, and leg. During her father’s recovery, Kaysey stepped up in remarkable ways, providing him with the care and support he needed. She helped him eat, drink, and even get dressed, showing immense love and compassion throughout.

In addition to caring for her dad, Kaysey continued her efforts to honour the memory of two beloved teachers at Richard Bonington School by maintaining a garden in their memory.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Winner: Professor Nathu Puri CBE

Professor Puri first arrived in the UK as a student, but soon found himself drawn to Nottingham — a place that became more than just a home; it became a community he would wholeheartedly dedicate himself to serving. Through The Puri Foundation, which he established in 1988, Professor Puri has given generously to a wide range of causes, providing an average of £1 million per year to support those who need it most and empowering organisations to make a difference.

His work spans many areas, but his contributions to education and youth development are particularly inspiring. Thanks to Professor Puri’s support, many schools and community projects in our region have been able to expand their resources and improve access to quality education. He has helped young people achieve their potential, setting them on a path to success that not only benefits them, but strengthens our entire community.

Professor Puri has also been instrumental in supporting key infrastructure projects in our borough, most recently, the installation of a new footpath at Breck Hill Park, which his foundation funded entirely.

Professor Puri’s generosity is a testament to the deep compassion he feels for those around him and his belief in the power of community. He embodies the principle of giving back and has made it his mission to improve the lives of others, both here and internationally, through his selfless dedication and steadfast commitment to charitable work.