Mayor praises community groups

Hosted by the Mayor Councillor Nicholas Trimble and Pete Snodden, invited guests attended remotely from their own homes while others watched online as the event was live streamed from LCCC headquarters at Lagan Valley Island.

Mayor, Councillor Nicholas Trimble, said: “I feel honoured as Mayor to be able to recognise, in some small way, the contribution that our local heroes make in our communities. This past year has been particularly difficult for everyone due to the pandemic and these awards celebrate those who have embraced the challenges and made a difference to others. I commend their hard work and commitment. We are truly partners in the fight against COVID-19 and we have built lasting relationships that will deliver benefits long into the future.

“I am delighted to have hosted our first ever virtual awards ceremony. We were determined that it would be a great night with live contributions from the award winners whilst keeping everyone safe. Even on screen, the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of our community heroes was evident. The work of local volunteers and organisations is truly inspirational. On behalf of the Council I congratulate our winners and thank all of those who took part or who took the time to nominate community heroes.

“Finally I would like to thank our award partners, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Volunteer Now and the Education Authority for their continued support.”

The winner of the Mayor’s Choice Award category was the Lisburn Foodbank. Delighted to be accepting the award was Mary Agnew who said; “It is wonderful that the work of the Lisburn foodbank and so many others has been celebrated and recognised tonight. Foodbanks are a lifeline for so many people at the moment and we have been overwhelmed by the community support we have received. I would like to thank our volunteers and everyone who donates to the foodbank. We couldn’t do it without you. We are delighted with this award.”

Building Bridges Together Award winner was St Vincent de Paul. Picking up the award on their behalf was Damian French who said; “Over the last year, communities have really pulled together and supported each other during these very difficult times. I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of St Vincent de Paul and we will continue to do our best to help those in need.”

Winners included: Brian McDowell Volunteer of the Year Award - Hazel Thompson, Drumbo & District Community Association, Good Samaritan Award - Jane McCambley, Lisburn Golf Club, Youth Hero Award - Kirsty McKeown, Stoneyford Community & Youth Association, Pillar Through the Pandemic Award - Lisburn Foodbank, Community Group of the Year Award - Ballybeen Women’s Centre, and Making a Difference Award - Lisburn SAFE.