Celebrating Excellence
- NN Leisure
- Dec 5
- 3 min read
On Wednesday, 19th November, North Northamptonshire Council proudly hosted its annual Active Communities Awards at the iconic Sywell Aerodrome. This inspiring evening brought together athletes, volunteers, clubs, and organisations to celebrate a year of outstanding achievements in physical activity, health, wellbeing, and sport.
The awards not only recognised sporting success at local, national, and international levels but also honoured the incredible individuals and groups who work tirelessly to help residents get active and improve lives across North Northamptonshire.
A Night of Inspiration
Special guests included Kate Longhurst, former England footballer, and Kirsty Clarke, CEO of Northamptonshire FA. Their presence, alongside two vibrant performances by SHAPE Dance, added energy and excitement to the evening.
Meet the winners
Community Organisation/Group Award - Rush 2 The Den
Rush 2 The Den is a multi-award-winning youth and family support organisation in Rushden. It offers inclusive programs for children aged 5–17, including youth clubs, outdoor adventures, life skills workshops, and sensory play for toddlers.
Community Activator Award - Richard Penman
Richard is a dedicated instructor at Active In Motion Wellbeing Centre, supporting individuals with long-term illnesses and disabilities. Over the past year, he has completed specialist training to better serve members with conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s, and MS.
Young Community Champion Award - Evie Wheeler
Evie Wheeler has made a remarkable impact as a young leader at Rothwell Youth Club since joining in 2024. She actively encourages young people to participate in physical activities, especially those who are initially reluctant.
Community Champion Award - Ken Murie
Ken is the heart of his local table tennis club, serving as President and much more. Over the past year, he has led weekly Bat and Chat sessions, providing daytime access to the sport for older adults and newcomers.
Primary School Sports Award - St Patrick's Catholic Primary School and Nursery
St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School and Nursery has embedded sport and wellbeing into every aspect of school life. With daily sports clubs, a strong curriculum, and inclusive initiatives like the Walk and Talk Club, they ensure every child is active.
Secondary School Sports Award - Rushden Academy
Rushden Academy’s PE department has transformed student engagement through its innovative “ME in PE” curriculum and inclusive sports leadership programme.
Community Club Award - Mawsley Youth Football Club
Mawsley Youth FC is a model of inclusive community sport, supporting 23 teams and over 90 volunteers. The club’s ethos centres on providing a positive, supportive environment for children to enjoy football and grow.
Get Active Award - Catherine Hill
Catherine has shown remarkable determination in improving her health and mobility over the past year. After being diagnosed with degenerative back damage, she joined the Active in Motion gym and later the Northamptonshire Spring group.
Health and Wellbeing Initiative Award - Priors Hall Park Community Events
Urban & Civic’s community programme at Priors Hall Park delivers a diverse range of health and wellbeing activities for residents of all ages. Over the past year, they’ve hosted events like the Youth Games, Turn Up & Play sessions, wellbeing walks, buggy walks, and the Roman Ramble.
Community Team Award - Wellingborough Town U13 Panthers
The Panthers began their journey in the 2024/25 season, offering boys a chance to be part of a team in a supportive and inclusive environment. With half the squad diagnosed with neurodiversity, the team has become a powerful example of how sport can foster belonging and personal growth.
Young Sports Performer Award - Ethan Soppett - Moss
Ethan Soppett-Moss has had an exceptional year in competitive swimming. Representing Corby Amateur Swimming Club, he won gold in the 50m butterfly at the British Aquatic Championships and equalled the English record in the 50m fly.
Disabled Sports Performer - Gary Cox
Gary Cox has had an outstanding year in quad wheelchair tennis, representing Team GB at the World Cup Team Cup in Antalya, Turkey, where he won a bronze medal in the Men’s Double Quad division.
Sports Performer Award - Fabian Powell
Fabian Powell is a standout young athlete in UK athletics, currently ranked 5th nationally in the 200m and 17th in the 400m. Over the past year, he has earned medals at the Youth Development League Final, including gold in the 400m and 4x100m relay.
Outstanding Recognition Award - Simon Fairhall
Simon Fairhall has spent 14 years transforming Kings Cliffe Active into a thriving community facility. As Chair of Trustees, he secured over £750,000 in funding for projects including netball courts, a gym extension, a pump track, and expanded play equipment.
Learn More
To read more about these inspiring winners, their stories, and to view the nights photos please visit:👉 nnactiveawards.co.uk/awards-winners-2025
