Newcastle-under-Lyme borough heroes awards
The 2026 Borough Hero Awards are now open for entries.
In 2023, Newcastle celebrated the 850th anniversary of the granting of its first charter. The year-long 850 celebrations recognised all that is good about the borough from our history through to our future. As part of those celebrations, we introduced the Borough Hero Awards, which are now in their 4th year of operation.
See the pictures of 2025's winners
Our communities are the bedrock of this borough and they in turn rely on the people within them who give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make a difference to the lives of those around them. These awards, which recognise and celebrate the invaluable contribution of these individuals are now part of the legacy of that special year of celebration. We are pleased to announce that 2026 awards are now open for entries.
Categories
Civic Pride (Individual)
Our Civic Pride (individual) award is open to people who have done something that has a positive impact on the people who live, work or visit the borough. The winner will have personally helped their local area flourish and showcased the borough in a positive light.
Civic Pride (Organisation)
Our Civic Pride (Organisation) award is open to community groups who have done something that has a positive impact on the people who live, work or visit the borough. The winner will be an organisation that has helped their local area flourish and showcased the borough in a positive light.
Young hero
Our young hero award is open to nominations for young residents under the age of 18. This person will have made a significant contribution to their community and represent our younger residents. Their contribution may be to volunteering, environmental projects or any other aspect of our awards - but the award winner will be a rising star and one to watch.
Business Community Hero Award
New for 2026, this award celebrates businesses – or individuals within a business – who have gone above and beyond to support local communities through their work. The award recognises community‑minded action that is embedded in everyday business practice and helps to build a stronger sense of civic pride across the borough. Nominations should highlight community benefit delivered as part of normal business activity, rather than activities undertaken in employees’ personal time.
Examples include but not limited to:
- Providing free or discounted services to community groups.
- Donating surplus stock, equipment, or professional expertise.
- Offering work placements, mentoring, or skills support.
- Hosting community events or initiatives that benefit local residents.
- Delivering environmental or social value projects linked to business operations.
Lifetime achievement
The lifetime achievement award recognises and celebrates a resident who has persistently and tirelessly championed a cause or community project which has had long term and sustainable impact on the borough. We value those who use their experience, and passion for progress and improvement to benefit our borough in the long term.