Nominations are now open for the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards 2025, in partnership with The Harpur Trust, celebrating the individuals who go above and beyond to make Bedford Borough a better place.
Among the categories is Fundraiser of the Year (Individual & Team), sponsored by Woodfines Solicitors, honouring those who dedicate their time and energy to raising money for causes close to their hearts.
The 2025 awards ceremony, hosted by Bedford School, will take place on Thursday, 1 May at The Quarry Theatre.
Nominate here – all nominations must be received by midnight on 16 March 2025.
Recognising those who go the extra mile
The Fundraiser of the Year award is for those who have worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for their chosen charity.
Whether through sporting challenges, community events, or creative campaigns, we want to hear how they made a difference and why their cause matters to them.
Nominees will be judged on passion, creativity, and commitment to their fundraising efforts.
Last year’s winner, Liz Simmonds, is a tireless fundraiser, having raised thousands of pounds for numerous charities. She has taken on extraordinary challenges, including a 100km ultra-marathon, and even donated a kidney to help someone in need.
Neil Gibbs, managing partner at Woodfines Solicitors, explained why they are supporting the award, “Local heroes are the heart of every community, especially those dedicated to important causes, raising awareness, and driving change.
“We deeply understand the significance of supporting our community and those individuals, organisations and businesses who are, like us, committed to seeing our community thrive and grow.
We’re proud to be part of these awards and excited to learn about the individuals who have shown passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to their causes.”
The Everyday Heroes Awards
Now in its fifth year, the Bedford Independent Everyday Heroes Awards, run in partnership with The Harpur Trust, celebrate the unsung champions of Bedford Borough.
The 2025 awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, 1 May, at The Quarry Theatre, with Bedford School as the host sponsor.
This year’s categories include:
- Young Carer of the Year (Heart Academies Trust): Recognising young carers under 18 for their dedication. (2023 winner: Andreea Balan)
- Volunteer of the Year (Harpur Trust): Celebrating those who give their time selflessly. (2023 winner: Akaal Seva)
- Excellence in Education (Bedford School): Honouring teachers, coaches, and educators who inspire and uplift young minds. (2023 winner: Faye McKinney)
- Raising the Profile of Bedford Borough (The Quarry Theatre): For individuals or teams who put Bedford on the map. (New award)
- Pride in Bedford Borough (Bedford Radio): Recognising those who make Bedford a better place to live, work, and play. (New award)
- Young Achiever (up to age 13) – (Maths Circle/Times Tables Rock Stars): For an individual aged 13 or under who has achieved over and above the expected. (2023 winner: Lola Bracey)
- Young Achiever (14-21) (Bedford Heights): Celebrating young people making a significant impact. (2023 winner: Charlie Faulkner)
- Youth Voice (Bedford Giving): A brand-new award recognising young people or organisations advocating for under-18s.
- Fundraiser of the Year (Individual & Team) (Woodfines Solicitors & White Hart Press): Rewarding those who have raised funds for a good cause. (2023 winners: Liz Simmonds & David Donnelly’s team)
- Unsung Hero (Brewpoint): For those making a quiet but significant impact. (2023 winner: Christian Coley)
Nominate here – all nominations must be received by midnight on 16 March 2025.
How to nominate an Everyday Hero
If you know an individual who has made a real impact through fundraising, nominate them for the Fundraiser of the Year – Individual award.
To submit a nomination, fill in the form at the end of this article or visit Everyday Heroes 2025 Nomination Form.
Let’s celebrate those who give their all to support the causes that matter most.
