100 Warwickshire residents honoured for extraordinary community service

demoduck.co.uk editorial team 2026-08-05 16:01 3 min read

People in formal attire gather in a courtyard in front of a historic stone castle.

Celebrating the unsung heroes of Warwickshire

In a display of civic pride, one hundred individuals from across the county have been officially recognised for their exceptional commitment to their local communities. The Warwickshire ChangeMakers initiative, a collaborative effort between the High Sheriff of Warwickshire and Warwickshire County Council, recently held ceremonies at St Mary’s Church in Warwick and Warwick Castle to celebrate these unsung heroes.

Since its inception by former High Sheriff Karen Lynch MBE last year, the programme has become a significant fixture in the county’s calendar. The initiative is designed to identify and honour those who work tirelessly behind the scenes—from volunteers and fundraisers to police officers and youth leaders—whose contributions often go unnoticed. By actively seeking nominations from a wide network of community organisations, the programme ensures that every district, background, and sector of society is represented.

A diverse spectrum of local contribution

This year’s recipients represent every corner of the county and a wide array of sectors. Among those recognised is fourteen-year-old Josh Fardon, who has spent half his life volunteering at Galanos House and serving as a Youth Standard Bearer. His commitment stands alongside that of Emma Smith, who founded the Hornets Mixed Ability Rugby Team a decade ago to foster inclusion, and Julie Hemming, whose work with the Little Bird Baby Bank in Stratford provides essential support to families in need.

Other notable recipients include Special Inspector David Malin for his voluntary leadership within Warwickshire Police, and Anna Nepip-Francis, who has been instrumental in supporting the county’s Ukrainian community. The list also features Amina Bhagette Mamoojee for her work in youth arts, Lianne Kirkman for her support of vulnerable women through the Esther Project, Tom Enoch for his advocacy in disability sports, and Gary Brinkworth, who serves as an Appropriate Adult in police custody.

The spirit of service behind the scenes

High Sheriff of Warwickshire Susan Rasmussen highlighted the collective impact of these individuals during the celebrations. “It is my pride and pleasure to be able to celebrate joyfully and thank many of Warwickshire’s volunteers who selflessly give so much to our communities,” she noted. The event itself mirrored this ethos, relying on the support of local businesses, civic volunteers, and public sector partners to bring the recognition ceremony to life.

Broadcaster and environmental campaigner Tom Heap was also among those honoured for his ongoing contributions to environmental awareness and his connection to the region. The initiative’s founder, Karen Lynch, emphasised the importance of public recognition in inspiring others, stating, “If people can’t see it, they can’t be it.”

What this means locally

The Warwickshire ChangeMakers initiative serves as more than just an awards ceremony; it acts as a catalyst for community cohesion. By highlighting these stories, the programme aims to encourage a culture of volunteerism and civic participation across the region. For residents, the initiative provides a clear message that leadership and service are not confined to formal roles but are found in the daily actions of neighbours helping neighbours. As the county reflects on these 100 stories of service, the focus remains on the tangible difference these residents make in strengthening neighbourhoods and protecting the most vulnerable across Warwickshire.

Source: Warwickshire County Council

Context & actions About this article

Source check Verified Local Report

This article is based on official records from the Warwickshire County Council regarding the 2026 ChangeMakers awards.

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