THE judging panel for the returning Heart of Ulverston Awards is made up of representatives from a wide cross-section of the local community.

Panellists for the awards ceremony, which will take place at the Coronation Hall on Thursday, May 16, represent a variety of organisations to ensure there is a fair share of voice across the town.

The judging panel consists of:

Chair Frank Stretton, a director at awards organisers 32West, a PR and Communications company based in the town.

Mayor of Ulverston Michelle Scrogham, who is also chair of UlverstonBID and the owner of Pure fashion.

Tony Martinez, the co-owner of headline sponsors Cumbria Teaching Agency which works with schools across the county.

Dr Gerry Murray, the well-respected local GP who is continuing his long association with the awards by representing the health sector on the panel.

The Rector of Ulverston Madi Simpson who is incumbent at Ulverston Parish Church.

Rebecca Athersmith, the operations manager at Chattaway Inns which owns the Rose and Crown in Ulverston and the Farmers’ Arms in both Ulverston and Baycliff.

Former mayor and current Ulverston Town Councillor Helen Irving who has been involved in the awards since their inception.

Ulverston Victoria High School teacher Richard Butler who will join the judging panel as the education representative.

Joy Yates, the Cumbria regional editor of media partner LOCALiQ which publishes The Mail and the Westmorland Gazette.

The team of nine judges face a difficult challenge ahead due to the volume of high-quality nominations submitted in each award category.

Dr Murray, who owns his own GP practice on Stanley Street, has served the town for 40 years.

He said: “It’s a privilege to be asked to be involved in this amazing community event once again, and it’s an excellent opportunity to work with several other members of the community to adjudicate on the many outstanding nominations we receive.

“It’s always inspirational to read the stories of how the excellent organisations and individuals in the town work tirelessly for the benefit of others in our community.”

The Rev. Madi Simpson said: “I am genuinely delighted to be on the panel. The church is in the heart of the Ulverston community, and I’m looking forward to being part of such a brilliant community event which celebrates so many people who are unseen and uncelebrated for their amazing achievements.

“What is so special about the Heart of Ulverston Awards is that it acts not just as a celebration but also inspiration for others to tell their stories and keep the legacy of the town going.

“The hours of the volunteers who help at Ulverston Parish Church equates to employing eight full-time members of staff, so we know how much it takes to give and to serve the community and how important it is to thank and honour the people who do so much for their local area.”

The 13 award categories are as follows: 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.

To nominate somebody you think deserves special recognition go to www.heartofulverston.co.uk/nominate.