Acis shines a spotlight on community heroes at first Inspiring Communities Awards in Gainsborough

The awards, held at the Savoy Cinema in Gainsborough, recognised people whose kindness, determination, resilience and commitment to others help strengthen communities and change lives throughout the East Midlands and South Yorkshire.

Greg Bacon, Chief Executive of Acis Group, said: “What an incredible and humbling evening. Our winners represent the very best of our communities and it was a real privilege for us to be able to host these awards and publicly honour them and their achievements.

“They are people who have made a genuine difference to the lives of others and whose actions inspire those around them. We were overwhelmed by the quality of nominations and every winner should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”

More than 30 nominations were received across nine award categories, with winners selected by an independent judging panel.

Among the winners were John and Carolyn Lyden from Gainsborough who won the Community Champion Award. They were recognised for their outstanding contribution to community life through their involvement with Gainsborough Men's Shed and a range of local initiatives.

Their dedication has helped create friendship, purpose and belonging for countless people while tackling loneliness and strengthening community spirit.

Carolyn said: "It's nice to be recognised for all the hard work, but it's totally rewarding what we do."

John added: "We’re proud to win."

Leon McCulla, from Gainsborough, received the Volunteer Award in recognition of his selfless commitment to volunteering.

From supporting community venues and events to helping tackle loneliness and giving up part of Christmas Day to support others, his contribution has touched lives across the community.

Leon said: "I’m over the moon, it’s so unexpected. I lead a normal life and I'm speechless to get the Volunteer Award."

Zoe Byrne, from Gainsborough, received the New Beginnings Award for overcoming significant personal challenges and creating a positive new direction for her future. Through education, determination and self-belief, she has rebuilt confidence and demonstrated the power of resilience.

Zoe said: "This is a community award and without Acis, without Clip, without the tutors and my wonderful cohort, I wouldn't have this.

“If you don't provide the community, we can't be inspiring. Success breeds success. I'm so proud, so pleased and so grateful.

“This is a community award and without Acis, without Clip, without the tutors and my wonderful cohort, I wouldn't have this. If you don't provide the community, we can't be inspiring. Success breeds success. I'm so proud, so pleased and so grateful.

Joann Collins, from the Gainsborough area, received the Impact Award for her exceptional contribution to supporting vulnerable young people. Through her compassion, patience and unwavering encouragement, she has helped countless individuals build confidence, overcome barriers and believe in brighter futures.

Joann said: “I'm very happy, it's just nice to be nominated at the end of the day but Fighting Fit got me there."

Other awards on the night were the Act of Kindness Award won by David Herbert; Environmental Award won by Tina Orange; Learner Award won by Jack Webster-Eyles; Inspiration Award won by Gary Baxter and the Living Well Award won by Jayne Faulkner.

The awards form part of Acis Group's commitment to supporting thriving communities and recognising the people whose efforts help create positive change across the region.