The Gedling community came together in a heartwarming celebration last week as the borough council hosted the 2025 Pride of Gedling Awards in partnership with The Wilkins Group. This special ceremony, now marking its tenth anniversary, was expertly presented by Gareth Evans and shone a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals, groups and organisations that have made a significant difference to life across the borough.
With an impressive over 300 nominations submitted across six different award categories, the event highlighted the incredible spirit and dedication found within the local area. The evening served as a powerful reminder of the positive impact that committed citizens can have on their community.
Celebrating Gedling's Local Champions
The awards ceremony recognised excellence in multiple areas of community life. The Business in the Community Award, supported by Nottinghamshire County Council, was presented to Mohamed Akbar of Phone Fix Mapperley Ltd. Known for his exceptional honesty and generosity, Akbar has become a local legend, particularly for his support of older residents. His kind acts range from lending phones to people entering hospital to assisting those involved in accidents near his business.
In the youth category, the Dylan Barker Young Person of the Year Award, sponsored by The Mellors Group, honoured James Moore for his outstanding dedication to youth sport and community development through Gedling Southbank FC. The award, named in memory of former recipient Dylan Barker, celebrates those under 21 who demonstrate exceptional community commitment.
Remarkable Stories of Service and Dedication
One of the most moving awards of the evening was the Community Hero Award, sponsored by Persimmon Homes, which went to Bev Norman. A true pillar of the Mapperley community, Norman has fostered or adopted more than 60 at-risk children throughout her life. She also runs a wellbeing space and community café at St Jude's, providing vital support and connection for local residents.
Environmental efforts were also celebrated, with Peter Wiles receiving the Environmental Hero Award for his work as Chair of the Woodborough Flood Action Group. Sponsored by The Wilkins Group, this award recognised Wiles for providing both practical and emotional support to those affected by flooding, while leading initiatives that have significantly strengthened community resilience.
The Outstanding Community Project Award, sponsored by Jigsaw Homes, saw Dice and Balls CIC claim victory after being runners-up last year. This vibrant, inclusive community hub in Arnold offers creative, social and educational activities for people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering connection, confidence and wellbeing throughout the community.
Double Winner and Overall Pride of Gedling
A particularly inspiring story emerged from the Inspirational Healthy Lifestyle Award, sponsored by Gedling Leisure, which was presented to Tommy Thompson. For over 25 years, Thompson has served as a dedicated boxing coach in Netherfield, transforming countless lives through sport. He supports vulnerable young people, helping them build confidence and avoid negative influences, while also fundraising for Child Bereavement UK with an ambitious target of £10,000 this year.
The evening reached its climax when Thompson received the highest honour – the Overall Pride of Gedling Award 2025. With this prestigious recognition, his name will be permanently added to the Pride of Gedling Wall in the council chamber, creating a lasting tribute to his profound positive influence on the community.
Councillor John Clarke MBE, leader of Gedling Borough Council, expressed his pride in all the nominees and winners. "The evening was a wonderful celebration of the remarkable people across the borough who make our community a better place," he said. "It is truly inspiring to see the positive impact these individuals and groups have made on the lives of others."
The 2025 Pride of Gedling Awards successfully highlighted that the true strength of the Nottinghamshire borough lies in its people – those extraordinary individuals who dedicate their time, energy and compassion to making Gedling a better place for everyone.
