Salisbury Radio Celebrates Local Heroes

Tonight, Salisbury Radio hosted the gala for the Local Hero Awards, held at The Stones Hotel, and gave thanks to the local businesses that came together to make the event happen.

This year’s event is hosted by Ceri Hurford-Jones from Salisbury Radio and Faye Tryhorn from Salisbury homelessness charity Alabaré and was sponsored by A Class Roofing and Construction.

In attendance at the event were The Right Worshipful Deputy Mayor of the City of Salisbury, Cllr Victoria Charleston and Cllr Laura Knight and the Mayor of Amesbury. 

Nominations for the 11 categories closed at the end of July and each category winner was thanked for their selfless services.

David Harber, Managing Director of Salisbury Radio, said:

"It has been such an honour to be in the room this evening, surrounded by so many inspiring members of our community. 

"Listening to the stories makes us at Salisbury Radio fully appreciate what an amazing place Salisbury, South Wiltshire and West Hampshire is to live and work. 

"I am proud that, as a radio station, we can shine a light on these people and celebrate their contributions to the local community. 

"We can't do this without the local businesses who support the awards and help us bring together some of the very best people from our little corner of the world."

The winners are as follows: 

Lifetime Achievement (Sponsored by Cara Glass)

Roland Revell received this award as he is retiring from the ambulance service after an incredible 50 years of dedicated service. During that time, he has supported and helped save the lives of thousands of people in the local community. He is described as humble, reliable and genuinely caring, while also supporting and educating new colleagues and helping to pass on his values to the next generation.

Fundraiser of the Year (Sponsored by The Stones Hotel) 

This award went to Toby Giles after 10 years of raising money and awareness for prostate cancer with his annual Race For Me event. What began as a small fundraiser has grown year-on-year, requiring increasing levels of planning, commitment and hard work. Through his passion and determination he has brought the community together to support an important cause and has made a lasting impact. 

Community Project (Sponsored by Complete Construction)

Michael Cunningham received this award having founded Kickstart FC in 2020, a free mental health charity using football to bring people together and challenge the stigma around mental health. He has created a range of community initiatives, including walk-and-talk groups, mental health workshops, Easter egg hunts, food packages and outreach at local events. He continues this work while working full time, raising two young children and managing his own mental health, demonstrating exceptional commitment to his community.

Child of Courage (Sponsored by Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm)

Liam Brooker received this award for deciding to fundraise for Breast Cancer Now following his mum's breast cancer diagnosis. He completed a 40-mile challenge over 30 days and raised £2,500. He turned an incredibly difficult experience into something positive, and his nomination spoke to how caring, thoughtful and supportive he was towards others during this hard time. 

Employee Award (Sponsored by Salisbury Radio) 

Having driven for Salisbury Reds since 2001, Mark Borissoff received this award as he approaches 25 years of service. He is described as consistently helpful, polite and professional with passengers, including those who need additional support. He regularly goes above and beyond, covering shifts even on his days off and making sure passengers receive the help they need.

Good Neighbour (Sponsored by Grist Environmental)

Regularly taking care of public spaces in the centre of Amesbury, meant Stuart Holland received this award. He mows grass, clears overgrown areas, reseeds grass and carries out general work to keep the area looking its best. He has even started work as early as 4am to weed and sweep the main road safely, showing just how much he cares about his local community.

Carer of the Year (Sponsored by Elite Care)

Chris Burton won this award, being the main carer for his wife, Cat, who has a rare condition and whose health has declined following issues with access to vital treatment. Despite the immense pressure and the impact on his own wellbeing, he continues to accompany Cat to appointments, advocate for her and provide her with the very best care, while also working full time. He is described not only as an exceptional carer but as a wonderful and supportive husband who keeps Cat's spirits up with his humour and dedication.

Bravery Award (Sponsored by A Class Roofing and Construction)

The Salisbury Neighbourhood Team - Matthew Boon was awarded the Bravery Award for consistently going above and beyond in serving its local community. The team continues to support the community despite the many obstacles and challenges faced by policing today. This award recognises their commitment to serving local people and continuing to make a difference in difficult circumstances.

Teacher of the Year (Sponsored by Guyatts of Salisbury) 

Described as an exceptionally caring teacher and SENCO who genuinely cares about every child in the school, Sarah Waddington received this award. She has provided significant support to a pupil and their family through a particularly difficult period, helping them navigate ADHD, school avoidance, anxiety and depression. She is always there to greet children with a smile, makes the school a brighter place and has supported the wider family through their own difficult circumstances.

Parent/Guardian Award (Sponsored by Hop Back Brewery)

This award went to Amy Chant, who works tirelessly to support her son, Reggie, and his teachers, particularly following his diagnoses of ADHD and dyslexia. She advocates strongly for his needs, seeking out support and resources and making sure he is understood, included and never made to feel different or isolated. She also volunteers at school events and is described as a kind, caring and determined mum who puts her heart and soul into helping her son reach his full potential.

Charitable Company (Sponsored by Jones and Co)

The founder of OCTO, Molly Cook, received this award because of her work to support people experiencing hair loss through chemotherapy, alopecia, trichotillomania and other conditions, providing free wigs and compassionate support. The charity has already provided hundreds of wigs to men, women and children, helping people regain confidence, dignity and a sense of themselves during an extremely difficult time. Her nominations had repeatedly highlighted Molly's kindness, selflessness and dedication, including the fact that she previously funded wigs herself and continues to put others first through OCTO.