A much loved Chester tradition, the Dee 106.3 Local Heroes awards took place recently at the Mercure Hotel. Attended by guests including The Lord Mayor and The Town Crier, the event was hosted by the reunited Dee radio hosts, Gavin and Irene.

Sponsored by K Cycles, who donated a bike as a raffle prize, the 11 award winners were all ordinary people doing extraordinary things. As Irene noted ” Its important to recognise the local people in the area who have gone above and beyond”. Followed by a 3 course meal the awards began, the room bathed in pink and blue light, the signature colours of the radio station. In a change of format to previous years, Friday morning presenter Mike Peters read out tributes to each winner.

Act Of Courage went to young Poppy Jones who battled against a range of health issues to raise money for Alder Hey Hospital, including climbing stairs the equivalent height of Mt Everest.

The Eco Award went to Helen Tandy the leader of Eco Communities Chester- responsible for a huge range of projects and activities in the area, including organising the Chester Green Weekend, litter picking and The Cheshire Cup Club which launched last year( see https://thechesterblog.com/2023/05/21/cheshire-reusable-coffee-cup-scheme-to-launch/ )

Sportsperson Of The Year went to George Morris for his volunteer role supporting the work of Gresford Cricket club. His devotion to the club helped to generate an inclusive environment for all to develop their skills.

Child Of Courage was awarded to Harmony Jarvis. The 14 year old was praised for her support of her autistic brother. “He brightens my day, to know that he’s at home waiting for me when I finish school” she said.

Business Of The Year went to the Blacon Adventure Playground. The well known Blacon icon was praised for creating a safe space for children, its summer programme of free sports and events and the massive role it has played in the community over the last 55 years.

Teacher Of The Year went to Phil Bull. Primary school teacher Phil was noted for running after school sports events as well as supporting and monitoring 3 pupils with diabetes.

Key Worker Of The Year went to Belinda Cobden. Belinda has worked as a paramedic with North West Ambulance for an amazing 35 years.

Parent Of The Year went to Samantha Walley. Samantha, the mother of a 5 year old child with autism, founded the group CWaC SEND Accountability –  a group of families who have voiced their concerns about the council’s SEN team. Alongside these challenges she also fought a personal battle to get her son a place in a specialist school.

Young Achiever Of The Year went to Ralph Davies. Ralph raised money for his scout hut in Saltney Ferry.

Volunteer Of The Year went to Lesley Povey for her key role creating a Food Pantry in Sandycroft, a venue she runs despite being in full time employment.

Carer Of The Year went to Carys Jones for the care she provides to her husband, who suffers from PTSD, as well as her 2 daughters. “I believe she is my saviour” said Carys’ husband.

Well done to all the winners!