Inspirational, hardworking, caring and loyal – just some of the words that were used to describe our award-winning heroes of 2018.
The most sought after gong of the evening – The Ely Hero Award - went to 44-year-old Ruth Marley, from Mepal, who runs the Re-Imagination recycling unit at Witchford.
“Growing up in a military family and living in lots of countries during my life, I’ve never really belonged anywhere but tonight I felt an overwhelming sense of being where I am supposed to be and I can’t thank people enough for that,” she said.
The Child of Achievement award saw all three inspirational children commended alongside a poignant standing ovation.
Kiera Haynes, Alfie McCreadie and Jay Davison received chocolate alongside their trophies as well as a big hug from their families afterwards.
The Smiliest Server award, sponsored by us at the Ely Standard, went to Javier Serrano-Gomez from the Habis Restaurant in Littleport.
Running for less than a year, Javier has made a big impression on the village with his tasty cuisine.
“I am so honoured and would like to thank my customers who have put me forward for this. I was not expecting it all as I only opened last year,” he said.
Colleague of the Year Donna Garner from IT Goverance, dedicated her gong to her colleagues.
“I just love my job,” she beamed.
Caring Companion was awarded to Lisa Thompson - the dedicated individual from Fen House Brain Injury Unit was even returning to her role after the award evening had finished.
Most Amazing Professional went to Ian Halliday from Cathedral Veterinary Surgery.
He said: “I have always had a passion for wildlife but to win an award like this has shocked me.”
Neighbour of the Year Jemma Tyler from Witchford, was chosen for going “above and beyond” for her neighbours in their time of need.
Community Champion winner Joanne Coe, who runs Littleport Events and The Port Youth Club had cancelled her youth group on Monday night.
“I can’t wait to tell the kids now, they’ll be over the moon, this is absolutely brilliant,” she smiled.
Best Teacher Award went to Claire Tod from Little Downham Feoffees.
The hardworking teacher of four and five-year-olds has been determined to carry on at the school, despite it going through difficult times in recent years.
Sporting Hero Brian Leonard was unable to attend, but the award was collected on behalf of him from City of Ely Cricket Club, which he has been a part of for an impressive 63 years.
The Ely Heroes Team added: “Thanks also to the brilliant and generous sponsors of this years awards without whom this would not be possible - The Elyi Magazine, Thorlabs, Grovemere Property Limited, The Ely Gin Company Ltd, Xpert Resourcing, King’s Ely, Crown Garage Honda, Life Fitness UK, Lovewell Blake, Milton Executive Cars, Masters Logistical Services Limited, Platinum Properties Poets House and the organisers of the event Metro Rod Cambridge - massive thanks to these local businesses.”
Organiser Naomi Sherwood from Metro Rod Cambridge, said: “I wanted to recognise people who go above and beyond and reward them. It wasn’t until I spoke to others in the community that I realised that an event like this could really happen.”
A host of local dignitaries, community leaders and business sponsors attended the glitzy ceremony which saw entertainment provided by vocalist Kathryn Buck and folk duo Elma Band.
Opening the ceremony, Mayor Councillor Mike Rouse said: “My father pointed out heroes to me in the street after the war, but there are many heroes who are not in the armed forces – in fact they are all around us tonight.”
Editor of the Ely Standard, John Elworthy said: “It has been a wonderful evening and the sense of community in Ely is very strong. It is one of the reasons I accepted the job as editor of the Ely Standard.”
Lord-Lieutenant Julie Spence added: “It is overwhelming achievement for all our winners who should be incredibly proud of themselves.”
• For the full picture gallery visit; www.elystandard.co.uk/news/in-pictures-ely-hero-awards-2018-1-5577250
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here