After a lull of six years, the Heart of Ulverston Awards is set to make a return, honouring the people, businesses, and organisations that keep the heart of Ulverston beating.
The awards last took place in 2018 and was a staple in Ulverston's social calendar.
32West, a PR and Communications Agency founded in the town, are spearheading the relaunch.
They rallied the support of local businesses and organisations, sparking a wave of excitement as members of the awards steering committee, sponsors, and suppliers assembled to mark the initiation of the Heart of Ulverston Awards 2024.
Frank Stretton, a director at 32West, said: “The Heart of Ulverston Awards were always an occasion everybody in the town looked forward to, and we’re delighted to be bringing them back this year.
“The awards are held in recognition of the amazing achievements and efforts of local people, businesses and organisations which make Ulverston such a fantastic place, and we’re very pleased to announce their return for 2024.
“So many individuals go above and beyond for the benefit of the town and their neighbours, and we feel it is only right that they should receive some form of credit for their selfless actions.
“The awards couldn’t happen without the support and contribution of all members of the steering committee, sponsors and suppliers, so a huge, heartfelt thank you goes out to each and every one involved in bringing the Heart of Ulverston Awards back.”
A black-tie event, the Heart of Ulverston Awards will make its grand return at Ulverston's Coronation Hall on May 16.
The event, invite-only, is being organised in conjunction with headline partners UlverstonBID and Cumbria Teaching Agency, with support from local businesses and organisations.
Councillor Michelle Scrogham, mayor of Ulverston and chair of UlverstonBID, is also a member of the awards' steering committee.
She said: “Celebrating the people and businesses that go above and beyond in making Ulverston a better place to live and work brings the community together.
“Hearing stories of our unsung local heroes is very special, and recognising these often dedicated and compassionate individuals creates a culture that doesn’t just benefit the awardee, but all those involved in community effort.
“The Heart of Ulverston Awards are not solely about those individuals doing great things, they place a spotlight on the characteristics that create a successful town and community for all.
“Please nominate those special people you know, and help us make sure the Heart of Ulverston Awards 2024 are ones to remember."
Tony Martinez, the founder of Cumbria Teaching Agency, said that the "amazing stories of local people" left him blown away during past events.
He said: "We went to the Heart of Ulverston Awards the last few times they were held and we were blown away by the amazing stories of local people who give up their time to support and promote their local community.
“It’s fantastic that so many people in the community have all united to make sure such an important event will go ahead once again.
“I am delighted to be involved in bringing this event back because it’s great to celebrate how wonderful Ulverston and our local people are.”
LOCALiQ, the media company which publishes The Westmorland Gazette and The Mail in South Cumbria, is the media partner for this year’s Heart of Ulverston Awards.
Joy Yates, regional editor for Newsquest Cumbria, said: “We are proud to be keeping our readers of The Mail and Westmorland Gazette up to date with all the news in connection with the awards leading up to such an uplifting event on May 16.
“There are many incredible and extraordinary individuals and groups in Ulverston and we want to tell their story and applaud each and every one.
“Please nominate your local champions and help us make these awards the best ever.”
There will be a total of 13 award categories: Lifetime Achievement, Sports Performance of the Year, Employee of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Sports Volunteer of the Year, Business of the Year, Community Group of the Year, Outstanding Courage Award, Best Hospitality Venue, Business in the Community, Citizen of the Year, Helping Hand Award, and Apprentice of the Year.
Nominations for deserving recipients can be submitted at www.heartofulverston.co.uk by March 22.
The venue is set to be embellished by Bluebell & Ivy, with Southcott Events Catering and Chattaway Inns ensuring everyone's treated to delicious offerings.
Anyone interested in lending their support for the remaining sponsorship opportunities is encouraged to contact Frank Stretton for further details at: frank@32west.co.uk
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