AWARDS IN ASSOCIATION WITH2017

The Ely Hero Awards Ceremony 2017 The Maltings, Ely Riverside Order of the evening

6:30pm Arrival drinks reception

7:00pm Welcome speeches Cllr Richard Hobbs, Mayor of Ely Naomi Sherwood, MetroRod

7:15pm Buffet served

8:00pm Awards Presentation

10:30pm Carriages The fabulous team was set up with The Ely Standard Newspaper as the media partner. Luke Smith of Infiniti Welcome Graphics designed the outstanding awards logo, branding and website, and Sadie Finch VA helped with admin and We are delighted to welcome you collating of the nominations, both also providing terrific organisational support. The team were also delighted with to the very first Ely Hero Awards the generosity of local businesses as category sponsors. After Ceremony - a chance to recognise a successful launch at the beginning of April the search for and celebrate Ely’s unsung heroes! our heroes went under way.

In all the 10 categories, a phenomenal 117 nominations were received, making the judging incredibly difficult. We We know Ely and the surrounding villages are great are thrilled to welcome our sponsors, judges, finalists and places to live and work. MetroRod (Cambridge), volunteers to this incredibly exciting evening in the delightful an Ely-based Drain Care and Drain Maintenance setting of The Maltings. company wanted to shine a light on the heroes in our wonderful community who are the most All the Audio-Visuals have been very kindly brought to us by compassionate, determined, honourable, kind, Greg Carter. supportive and brave - an inspiration to us all. Reflecting the spirit of this, the idea of the very first We very much hope you enjoy your evening and best wishes Ely Hero Awards was born and has been organised to all the finalists! by Naomi Sherwood, Business Development Manager of MetroRod (Cambridge). The Ely Heroes Team Meet the Host

It is a privilege to be part of the first Ely Hero Awards Programme, and a very big thank you to Naomi Sherwood, Business Development Manager for Metro Rod, for her enthusiasm in establishing this new community event.

As Mayor, I meet many people from all walks of life and I’m constantly amazed at the community spirit that exists in our city. I was born in Ely and have lived in the city all my life. My wife Pat (who moved here from ) and I have brought up two sons in the city. Our youngest lives in Ely with his family and our eldest now lives and works in Switzerland. They have each given us two wonderful grandchildren.

Over the years, Pat and I have been involved in many community projects and we are always surprised by the amount of time people are freely prepared to provide helping others. In our role as Mayor and Mayoress we are fortunate to meet many of our unsung heroes and we look forward to honouring some of them tonight.

Richard Hobbs Mayor of Ely Ian Lindsay was born in Cambridge, but moved away when he was five years old. during his career he joined the Medical Branch of the RAF and served as a medical officer. Although he didn’t serve there, Ian Meet the Judges knew the RAF Hospital in Ely well, as one of his three children were born there.

Ian was in the RAF for 29 years and during Sarah Cliss, News and content editor with that time, his children all boarded at King’s the Ely Standard, has around 35 years of School, so he got to know and love Ely. After journalistic experience, much of it locally in numerous moves Ian and his wife, Suzanne, East Cambs and Fenland. She lives locally and settled here in 1997, before leaving the RAF in is the mother of two grown-up daughters. Her 1999. Thereafter, Ian worked in occupational husband Tony is a former Ely postman who is Ian Lindsay medicine until he retired in 2013. Cllr & Ex-Mayor now based at March. This gave Ian some free time, so he joined the In her many years of local journalism, Sarah City Council three years ago, and was Mayor has been involved in various campaigns, until May this year. Now on the back benches, community award schemes and fundraising he is pleased to be a judge for the Ely Hero efforts. She has been with the Ely Standard Awards 2017. for over two years (this time around). She worked for the paper in the 1980s, and has Sarah Cliss a long history with this beautiful city and its News and content wonderful community. Sarah is originally from Sue Freestone, MEd GRSM LRAM ARCM, editor, Ely Standard Sussex, but finished her schooling in March. has been the Principal of King’s Ely since Much of her working life has been spent in September 2004. Prior to this role, she was neighbouring Fenland and West Norfolk. Head of Sibford School, Oxfordshire, from 1997. Sarah said, “Every person is special and is a hero in their own way, even if it is simply just being Sue is a former Chair of SHMIS (now the the best person they can be. But there are Society of Heads), and currently represents always stories of those who are extra special, HMC on the Independent School Council that go the extra mile and do something Wellbeing committee. extraordinary either to help an individual or the community at large. So it is fantastic to She holds a Master’s Degree from the have the Ely Hero Awards to recognise some of University of Bristol and is a graduate of the those extra special individuals. The Ely Standard Royal Schools of Music. Sue is an Honorary is absolutely delighted to be involved. We have Sue Lay Canon of Ely Cathedral, Governor of been overwhelmed by the response and the Freestone several schools and a trustee of the Tsavo very high standard of all those nominated – Principal of King’s Ely Conservation Group UK. She is married with a what a fantastic bunch of people!” daughter, a son and four grandchildren. Before retiring, Lis Every worked for over 30 Elaine Griffin-Singh is currently a local years in secondary education as a teacher Councillor with East Cambs District Council of business and was a Secondary Head for the North Ward. She formerly served on Teacher in Peterborough. Her family has run a the City of Ely Council for eight years and held business locally since they arrived in the area the office of the Mayor of Ely during 2013- over 40 years ago. After retiring, Lis became 14. Elaine was a founder member of the Ely a local Councillor sitting on the City of Ely Traders Association and was Chairman from Council and East District 2004-2007. Council, and was Mayor for two years. She was recently elected to the Cambridgeshire Elaine now has a Probate Research and County Council. Genealogy business, but was an antique dealer for 25 years with shops in the Lis is absolutely committed to supporting town. She has had a number of other skills development and helping young people entrepreneurial enterprises. Lis Every in the area, to achieve their career potential Elaine Cllr & Ex-Mayor through her work as Chair of the Learning and Griffin- Elaine is currently a Director and Chair of Skills Sector of the Chamber of Commerce. Youth Ely Hub!, the charity in charge of Centre Singh E community centre, which supports local Married with two children and two Director and Chair of youth provision and services. grandchildren, Lis’s hobbies include theatre ‘Youth Ely Hub’ and singing, as well as being a Trustee of Pos+Ability, VCAEC, Ely Museum and the Ely Gill Prangnell retired recently after an Choral Society, working on their Steering interesting and varied career that included 10 Committee for the Ely Youth Choir. Lis is also years teaching in secondary schools, and a a governor for Ely St Johns Primary School similar period of time at the County Council, and Ely College. in roles as diverse as travellers’ liaison and policy. Gill has worked for the careers service, Lis says, “I am absolutely delighted to be one and for a short time, as a researcher for a of the judges in this new celebration of local Cambridge University project that involved heroes. We have been delighted with the interviewing people in the Ely area. Most number of entries, but it has been a really recently, she worked for Cambridgeshire difficult task to narrow these down to the Chambers of Commerce where her role finalists and then the winner. included supporting the Ely Chamber of Commerce, and acting as an independent Ely is such a fantastic place to live, work and judge for the Ely Standard Business Awards. shop so it has been particularly rewarding to Gill work together with the other judges on what Gill is now a Chamber member and is will be an annual event which recognises Prangnell Cambridgeshire helping to develop its fifth ‘Ely Grow Your the talents, care and commitment of local Chamber of Business’ event, held at The Maltings on 12th people.” Commerce July. Otherwise, Gill is thoroughly enjoying spending time with her 18 month old grandson. Bridget Hickish is a local business owner and Jeff Hide settled in Ely in 2008 after retiring the Editor of Elyi Magazine. She lives in Ely from a career in law which included with her husband James, formerly the Head equestrian show jumping cases in the Olympic teacher at St Mary’s Junior School, and is now Court in Lausanne, Switzerland. For five retired and a voluntary Associate Priest at St years, he was in charge of a divisional police Mary’s Church. They have three children. prosecutions office in West Sussex. For over 20 years, he was an instructor and examiner Bridget was born in rural Wiltshire, studied for the British Horse Society and had also Music, Drama and Education at Warwick competed in target pistol and rifle shooting University and moved to Cambridgeshire in at national level. He is currently Chairman 1991 to take up a teaching post. She has lived of the Electric Boat Association in the UK, in the area for the last 26 years, making the Vice Chairman of the Great Ouse Boating move into the heart of Ely in 2013. Association and takes over as President of the Ely Hereward Rotary Club from 1st July. Bridget In 2014, the family’s life was turned upside- Jeffery Hide down when James suffered a stroke. Bridget Ely Hereward Rotary He says, “I found the job of Judge of the Hickish Club President elect Editor, Elyi Magazine says, “It sounds trivial, but one of the things Sporting Hero Award enlightening. There is that got us through those dark first days of so much talent around in Ely and district not James’ illness were people who were good realised by the local population and it was not at their jobs. Meeting people in the course an easy job to compare such diverse sports, of your day who are courteous, competent ages and skills.” and positive makes all the difference when you are struggling with traumatic life events. That’s why I am so delighted to be judging the Caline Easey is the Littleport & Ely Timebank Smiliest Server category. It takes character, coordinator and has been working in this consistency and skill to be positive everyday in capacity for nearly four years. Timebanking your job and that is what I will be looking for is a local initiative which sees members within the nominees.” swapping time and skills with one another for free. It currently has 145 organisations and individuals helping one another throughout Littleport, Ely and surrounding villages. Caline is an Ely Hereward Rotary member and is a neighbourhood Watch coordinator, and committee member. She has been fostering the odd hedgehog for a local hedgehog sanctuary and owns one noisy cat, two children and husband. Caline Easey Littleport & Ely Time Caline has lived in for Bank 13 years, but ventured to these parts from Richmond in West London, thanks to internet dating, and has never looked back! in London, Kent and the South West, publishing 1.35 million copies a week in print. Amongst the flagship titles is the Ely Standard’s sister papers: the Eastern Daily Press and the East Anglian Daily Times.

Its websites reach over 4.8 million readers a month – a figure that is growing all the time.

Archant, which was founded in Norwich in 1845, is also the largest publisher of regional and local lifestyle magazines and associated digital media in the UK, and also owns a range of specialist magazine titles circulating predominantly in the UK and USA. Ely Standard Newspaper The Ely Standard prides itself on being part of the community it serves and is absolutely honoured to be involved with the The Ely Standard is the local weekly newspaper for Ely and Ely Hero Awards. It sits nicely alongside the Ely Business the whole of East Cambridgeshire. Awards, which are now in their ninth year and are recognised as one of the area’s most prestigious awards. Ely Hero The newspaper was established in the early part of the 19th Awards look set to follow that success. Century and has a reputation for providing its readers with quality, accurate news – covering the events and stories that 01354 661915 are important to the community. www.elystandard.co.uk

The Ely Standard is part of Archant, a privately owned media company serving its customers and readers with over 140 brands and associated websites.

Archant has a large portfolio of UK-based regional newspapers with titles not only here in East Anglia, but also Smiliest Jo Pearson – Drayman’s Son A person nominating Roxy says of her, Jo has been the landlady of the triple award “Roxy is a true professional, whether she winning micropub in Ely for just over two is serving breakfast, lunch or dinner, she is Server years. She organises a lot of local events in 100% committed to making the guest or Sponsored by Ely and is the heart of the , much loved by customer’s experience amazing. She offers her customers. She loves the atmosphere and the most amazing service that guests regularly The Ely Standard thrives on welcoming her regulars, chatting, comment on afterwards.” and having a laugh. Everyone receives a warm welcome and without dominating the Shelley Davies-Bloss –Witchford Post Office The judges said, “We have room she creates a cosy, family atmosphere Shelley is the Manager and Post Mistress been so impressed with the which ensures that customers feel relaxed of the Witchford Post office. After working calibre and diversity of these and welcomed, whether they are well known for a major bank for 22 years, she made the regulars or first timers. move in 2005 to her current position running nominations, we feel it is vitally Witchford Post Office. Shelley is a resilient important to have a server A person nominating Jo says of her, “When and positive character, and one that makes who’s care and attention to you come to the pub, Jo welcomes you with a a big difference to the life of the village. She smile and always takes time to talk to you and provides something very valuable to her detail really shines through. takes an interest in you.” community and she does it with a smile, Meeting people in the course even when rattling through a steady queue of your day who are courteous, Roxy Webster –The Poet’s House after a bank holiday. Her multitasking skills Roxy Webster is Front of House at The Poet’s under pressure are quite breath taking. She competent and positive makes House. She has made the UK her home remembers names, regular orders, family all the difference - what a tough after moving here just over a year ago from connections and the necessary technical task this has been to judge!” her native South Africa, where she worked knowledge of her job, while serving multiple as a Special needs teacher. She decided to customers on a hot day. move into hospitality. She has embraced her new career and offers amazing service A person nominating Shelley says of her, to guests, going the extra mile and making “Shelly always saves the day! Shelly is always sure they receive the very best individual smiling and chatting to customers. Loved by service. She makes it a priority to find out the so many, I honestly couldn’t think of a single individual needs of guests and visitors, and in person more worthy of this award!” the restaurant, makes sure that waiters and waitresses know exactly what each guest Meet the finalists requires. including restaurants, construction, plumbing and electrical, equine, pharmaceutical, marketing, property sectors, civil engineering, manufacturing, retailers, professional academics and many more in the Ely and surrounding areas.

As a business it is rooted in the local community and it continues to support a number of community projects. Red Shoes prides itself on offering approachable, friendly and supportive services, something not often found in some of the larger firms. The team has over 80 years combined experience and offers all the services you would expect from an a larger accountancy firm, but at competitive fixed rates (no charging each time you pick up the phone or email). Red Shoes Our Clients love the way they work and you can see why by Accounting Services reading their testimonials on their website. For a free consultation and to obtain a quote please contact: Red Shoes Accounting Services is very pleased to be supporting the Ely Hero Awards, and in particular the 01353 865368 Best Parent Category. As a parent herself, Vicky Cooper, [email protected] recognises the immense value parenting plays in www.redshoesaccounting.co.uk strengthening communities, helping children to achieve their potential and becoming engaged citizens who play an active role in the local area.

Red Shoes was established in 2009 and provides a range of accountancy, bookkeeping, tax, payroll and other support services to local individuals and charities. It serves a diverse range of small and large businesses across many sectors Best Parent Sonia Taylor Sue Smith Sponsored by Red Shoes Sonia was a single parent of three children Sue, a mother of two and a local child minder Accounting Services who worked all hours possible to ensure for 17 years, has probably looked after most they had the life she wanted for them. Sonia of the children in Ely! Fun and energetic, and has been described as, “The most caring a clear parallel thinker, Sue is a very caring The judges said, “We were and loving woman”. She looked after all her person. She has been described as someone, very touched and felt quite children’s friends and always made time for “who thinks and puts others first before them, and went onto foster a child to save her herself.”. She has fundraised considerably for emotional reading the going into care. She helped the child through lots of good causes. Sue might just be the background of these parents school and assisted the child’s parent so they biggest Take That fan on the planet! and the sacrifices they have could be reunited. Sonia took in and cared made. We hope that the awards for one of her relatives in her own home Sue’s daughter, who nominated her says, embolden others to come after their partner’s death. She stayed strong “She has been the best mum supporting me and put her own life on hold when one of with everything I do and has the best ways to forward and share their stories her family members was going through the handle difficult situations. Mum has always of selflessness as our finalists darkest of times. been there for me through the bad times, have shown us.” when I needed someone there the most.” Sonia’s daughter, who nominated her says, “She takes anyone under her wing and never asks for anything in return. I have never met anyone like her and I think she is the best parent ever!”

Meet the finalists East Cambs floating support provides housing, financial, literacy and numeracy, and life skills support for people in their own homes. It has homes for affordable rent and shared ownership, and runs a Time Bank, helping local people to come together to help others and help themselves at the same time.

Ely is full of caring people and it is proud to celebrate them all.

01223 713555 [email protected] www.chsgroup.org.uk CHS Group

CHS Group is a social enterprise and charitable housing association, helping people and communities to overcome challenges, take opportunities, and develop their ability to achieve their aspirations. They provide over 2,800 homes and community services to support over 9,000 people in Cambridgeshire.

Sponsoring the Caring Champion award is close to our heart – in Ely, we provide residential care for older people at Vera James House and domiciliary care for older people in the community. Our Ely Young People’s Project provides supported housing for vulnerable young people and our Caring Matthew George Wendy Halls Matthew gave up work a year ago to help care Wendy has been a Key Worker at a young for his wife due to her multiple debilitating people’s project for around four years. She Companion illnesses, that means she is in constant is described as the “mother hen” of the Sponsored by CHS Group pain. Her mobility is greatly reduced and group. She is very mindful and pro-active at she requires the assistance of a motorised creating new activities. Her nurturing creates wheelchair to maintain some independence. an environment that is happy and relaxing The judges said, “It was very hard to Matthew helps with his wife’s dressing, for the young people who have endured judge as all the finalists are worthy washing, personal care, laundry, ironing and great difficulties in their life, providing them winners. We hear of government cooking. Matthew will accompany his wife on with happy memories. Cooking, cleaning, cuts in social care yet the many of her appointments. He is incredibly colouring and art are some of the ways these dedication of these carers should be caring and loyal and is her life-line. Matthew young people with life skills. recognised as they provide such an also helps raise his 13 year old step daughter. important role. It is great to be able to acknowledge what an important, The person nominating Matthew says, “he Shellie Jackson never grumbles, he always put his wife first no Shellie has worked for over eight years at a fantastic job they do in whatever matter how he feels. He is on hand 24 hours a young people’s project as a Key Worker. She capacity, whether it has been to day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year.” assists the young people with their rights support and care for vulnerable and helps them fill in forms for a variety young people or caring for family of applications. Although she is “cool as a members and giving up their own Sule Salim cucumber”, she will not stop until she gets interests to do this.” Sule has been working at a young people’s the results the young people need, tirelessly project for three years. Sule is a Key Worker to assisting them whatever their background. She Due to the exceptional amount four young people in a unit of 15 bedrooms. is very sincere and very hardworking. of nominations received for this Sule brings a lot of joy to the young people he supports. He has a huge heart, is very positive The person nominating them says, “they truly category, at the discretion of the and his laid-back approach makes him a care about the futures of the young people organisers, it was felt necessary favourite for young people to spend time with. they support and work very hard to improve to put forward an extra finalist for Sule helps to create a happy, safe and relaxed things for them. They do us all proud.” an award to really showcase how atmosphere within the home, providing young special these carers are. people with the life skills and support they will never forget.

Meet the finalists Grovemere Property Limited offers land on either a Leasehold or Freehold basis to deliver bespoke office, Research and Development, or light industrial/warehouse accommodation to suite all your business needs.

Nicola Tuck, Director at Grovemere Property Limited said: “Sponsoring The Most Amazing Professional Category was a clear choice for us because engagement with a wide cross section of business professionals is key to driving our business forward. So many people were nominated across the 10 categories and each nominee should be extremely proud to have been recognised. Good Luck!”

For more information or to arrange an appointment to discuss how Lancaster Way could accommodate your business, please contact Harvey or Nicola on:

Grovemere 01353 666666 [email protected] Property Limited www.grovemere.com

Join 80 businesses at East Cambridgeshire’s Enterprise Zone, Lancaster Way Business Park where key benefits to you and your business include: • Business Rates Relief up to £275,000 over 5 years • Fast Tracked planning • Support from East Cambs District Council and the Local Enterprise Partnership • Access to growth funding. Most Amazing Dan Reed never judgemental. She has even found time Dan had a brother who was helped in the past to have a baby. Professional by MAGPAS. As a result, Dan has worked his Sponsored by Grovemere way up from being a volunteer to becoming A person nominating Sophies, “Sophie a full-time member of a dedicated team makes you feel incredibly comfortable, her Property Limited of paramedics and doctors. They provide non-judgemental attitude makes her stand frontline medical care at the site of accidents out, she often rearranges her family time to throughout East Anglia. He describes his team accommodate you.” The judges said, “We are so as more of a family than anything else. Dan proud of the work these finalists is at heart, a true Ely man whose own family Nicola Riley do in our local community, lives among us. We should be proud of the Nicola is part of the Pharmacy Team at Boots some of them endure physical work that he does! in Ely and provides various health clinics within the store. It is clear Nicola gets pleasure from disabilities, but their fortitude The person nominating Dan says, “I’ve always her job, as she is there to help people. She in determination to provide the been impressed with Dan’s professionalism goes that extra mile despite her own disability. much-needed services they and dedication to perfection working as part Whether it be in continuing to support a group represent, is amazing and really of a Doctor/Paramedic team to provide truly who benefit from her personal experience sets them apart. These finalists lifesaving care. I feel the hairs on the back of and counselling, or spending time with elderly my neck when I hear the Air Ambulance over customers who value her readiness to listen get pleasure from the support Ely.” while they are out about in their daily lives. they provide, they really are Nicola makes time for people. deserving of their nominations Sophie Davison and we wish them a super Sophie’s determination to continue with her A person nominating Nicola says, “she is a evening.” professional work as a beautician is amazing. star and a real trooper. Nicola has a lot on her She experienced a horrendous car accident own plate with the constant pain she is in, yet only last year, but despite residual injuries and she carries on regardless. She really makes a disability, she continues to provide a fantastic difference.” service to her many clients, going above and beyond, to ensure her clients’ needs are met. A self-confessed perfectionist, Sophie is very Meet the finalists caring, very dedicated, incredibly positive and Over the last three years, the Elyi has helped many local businesses to get their message to the people of Ely through the pages of the magazine, with well designed adverts and thoughtfully crafted articles that attract the attention of their customers within the readership. The local people love it, and appreciate the featured community information about local groups and meets, as well as seasonal events throughout the year. The magazine has massive community engagement with a regular stream of information flying in each month via email for inclusion in the magazine. Bridget and Madeleine are determined to keep supporting local charities and non- profit groups with free and discounted space, and work hard looking after the advertisers who support the magazine. They are delighted to be sponsoring the ‘Neighbour of the Year’ category in the Ely Hero Awards this year.

Bridget said: “We knew from the start that the idea of Elyi Magazine honouring and acknowledging good local people was a great fit for us as our mission is all about ‘Reflecting the Richness of Ely Life’.” The Elyi Magazine is the A5 publication for Ely. There are 11 issues per year, lovingly delivered to local homes, offering For editorial call Bridget on 01353 662684 or email effective local advertising for businesses, services and [email protected] charities. The magazine is owned and run by Bridget Hickish and Madeleine Funnell, both Ely residents, who love their For advertising call Madeleine on 01353 664920 or local community and are passionate about the way business 07739 260027 or email [email protected] and community groups can work together. They employ a dedicated team who distribute both the magazine and independent leaflets every month. Neighbour of Bert Russell Jo Evans Bert has been an integral part of village life Multiple nominee Jo, stepped in to help a the Year in for most of his 90 years. vulnerable neighbour who found themselves Sponsored by Despite his age, Bert still ensures Little in an utterly desperate, horrific situation. Jo Thetford makes a good first impression by has worked tirelessly and selflessly to assist Elyi Magazine clearing overgrown bushes, planting flowers, this neighbour to find them work and the help picking up litter and tending to weeds – that was needed to help them support their whatever the weather and without ever family. One of biggest problems for Jo was The judges said, “This category being asked. Bert was the caretaker for the trying to prevent a family from falling through has blown us away with the Village Hall for many years and he remains an the cracks in our society, and get them into selflessness of its nominees. It active member of the Trustees Committee. ‘The System’. Thankfully through all of Jo’s is so heart-warming to know Community-spirited Bert exemplifies what it hard work and dedication, they have a much means to be a good neighbour through his brighter and happier future ahead of them. that these people are within our activism and concern for the village and his community, dedicated to the fellow residents. He has delivered newspapers, One nominee says about Jo, “Jo has done all wellbeing of their neighbours walked people’s dogs and decorated their this from a position of true altruism. She has either individually or for their houses! not looked for praise, nor does she accept whole village. In a world it if it is given. Jo says, “I’m only doing what Bert’s nominee said, “His kind deeds are anyone else would do in my place.” I don’t where many don’t know the woven into the fabric of our community.” believe that others would go to the lengths name of their neighbours, it Jo has gone and this is why I am nominating has been thrilling to discover her - I cannot imagine a more valid reason for these individuals within our someone to receive this award.” community who have gone above and beyond.”

Meet the finalists experienced staff. Although based in East Anglia, they offer a personal service to both local clients and those who live away from the area.

The Ely office is the city’s longest established legal practice and is situated in the heart of historic Ely, with ample parking nearby. The firm has traditionally maintained strong links with the local community with several past partners having sat on local councils, and two having held the posts of Mayor of Ely and High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire. The train station, with a fast direct line to King’s Lynn, Cambridge and London, is a 10 minute walk away.

“Ward Gethin Archer is privileged to be a sponsor of the Ely Hero Awards, which are providing a rare opportunity to not only recognise, but also thank members of our community who go above and beyond on a daily basis, and who may otherwise go relatively unnoticed.”

01353 662203 www.wardgethinarcher.co.uk Ward Gethin Archer

Ward Gethin Archer is a long established East Anglian legal practice with eight offices serving West Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, and one of the major firms in the area in terms of size and expertise. A full range of legal services is offered by highly qualified personnel: solicitors and legal executives with the support of other well trained and Community Bert Russell One person nominating Hayley says, “Hayley’s Bert has been an integral part of life in his ideas, enthusiasm and willingness to help Champion village, Little Thetford for most of his 90 years. local people, connect and uplift each other, Sponsored by Bert ensures the first impression of the village is inspiring.” Another said, “She continuously is a good one, as he clears overgrown bushes, gives her time, efforts and support, asking for Ward Gethin Archer plants, flowers, picks up litter and tends to nothing back.” the weeds in all seasons. He has delivered newspapers, walked neighbours’ dogs and Zoe Davidson The judges said, “We have had helped decorate people’s homes. Zoe is the inspiration and driving force behind the privileged glimpse of many the Ely Soup micro-crowdfunding initative wonderful individuals who The person nominating Berts says, “Bert’s in Ely. She connects lots of local people, make our city great and it has kind deeds are woven into the fabric of our causes and organisations, around a simple fun community: his famous bingo fundraisers are evening where people have a bowl of soup, been a complete joy to read well attended and he was a caretaker of the listen to community pitches and vote for the their stories! We have read village hall. He approaches his 90th birthday, one they like best. She has organised several about people who have made his zeal for his community remains as strong highly successful events to help the local their villages a better place as ever. What makes Bert remarkable is that he community. to live, to individuals in the never needs to be asked.” One person nominating Zoe says, “Zoe’s community who have found Hayley Mason energy for people is limitless, she is a true themselves no longer alone due Hayley has set up and runs an Invisible Illness people person and makes things happen, and to the commitment of others Support Group, which helps people with makes a difference to the Ely community.” fighting for them. The sacrifices illnesses that have life changing conditions Another said, “She does all of this with great these people make are heart- and for which there is limited support for. She energy, humour and humility.” has set up this group despite her own personal warming and we are proud to challenges. She has been described as, “a hero be able to reward them.” on my doorstep”. The group she founded has gone from strength to strength and over this last year, she has helped so many different people from different walks of life. Meet the finalists move to their new building in 2018 will open up more job opportunities in the local area and there are plans to increase head count to over 500 employees!

Thorlabs empower their people to take initiative and achieve results that accelerate key photonics technologies and maintain high customer satisfaction. Thanks to their sports and social team, they find time to have fun at work and often meet up outside work for social, sports and charity events. Getting stuck in to the many events that take place in Ely and the surrounding area is something Thorlabs is very fond of.

“We feel privileged to have had the opportunity to sponsor the ‘Best Teacher’ category of the Awards – especially as it is the category that received the most votes! It’s been great fun Thorlabs building the hype in our weekly team briefs and plastering the company walls with the colourful event poster!”

Thorlabs is a global optical technologies company with 01353 654440 expertise in the design and manufacture of an extensive [email protected] array of innovative photonics products for manufacturing www.thorlabs.com and research. With design and manufacturing offices across the world, Thorlabs has a long-standing customer base with significant growth potential and an excellent reputation for quality, customer service and dependability. Thorlabs has been an active member of the Photonics community for 25 years, manufacturing over 16,000 products. Due to the ever growing product range, Thorlabs Ltd is currently undergoing significant expansion of manufacturing operations in Ely. The Best Teacher Christina Emmess from Witchford Village Charlotte Leaver from Lantern School, Ely College Charlotte is a Year 1 teacher and has received Award Christina teaches Child Development and PE. multiple nominations from parents who Sponsored by Thorlabs A student that nominated Christina says, “She said that she encourages a love of school: makes every single lesson fun and enjoyable; she boosts childrens’ confidence; she gets she is patient and understanding; she listens to the best out of each child; she has high The judges said, “All of the what we’ve got to say; she praises hard work; expectations; she inspires the children with teachers have been thrilled makes us feel good; greets us with hello and her energy and passion; she creates a fun she motivates us.” Receiving such eloquent learning environment and she knows how to to have been nominated and praise from a student makes her exceptional. talk to the children without patronising them. felt boosted by the process, it The student describes her as, “An amazing Comments about Charlotte from different has had a positive impact on teacher.” parents include, “All parents hope for their everyone. Congratulations to all child to be taught by her” and “Miss Leaver is the finalists!” Tom Russell from Downham a rare gem who touches the lives of everyone Feoffees School, Ely she teaches and leaves a sparkle of fairy dust Tom also received multiple nominations from behind her.” Due to the exceptional amount parents who said that he is very passionate of nominations received for this about his job: nothing is too much trouble; he Christine Fadipe from Ely College category, at the discretion of the is always kind; the children love him; he works Christine is a teacher of English. A student that organisers, it was felt necessary endlessly to help out parents, students and nominated Christine says, “She is an inspiration teachers; he has a passionate commitment to to me; she teaches me to be myself; she to put forward an extra finalist the school, and is dedicated and motivational. keeps us interested and makes it fun; she is for an award to really showcase Comments about Tom from different parents creative and she is always happy to help and how special our teachers are. include, “He is a hardworking, motivational answer questions”. Christine’s colleague says, individual that does amazing things for all “she makes it look easy and fun and she is the children”, and he is “A truly inspirational easy to approach and always bubbly.” Another teacher.” student says, “I wish all teachers could be like her”, along with a colleague who says she’s “what teachers should be like”. These really sum up how extraordinary Christine is. Meet the finalists to teaching children in a fun, learning environment. Seahorse Our tremendous growth has been almost exclusively through Swim School personal recommendation and is a testament to the excellence Seahorse Swim School was of our coaches and teaching established in 2009. Based in methods. Ely with pools in Witchford, Ely, and Littleport and At Seahorse Swim School, each Newborn Floatation Chatteris, we provide swimming swimmer is an individual. We Born from water, babies have lessons to all ages and abilities nurture and build confidence Puggles an innate ability to move freely from three years. with most nervous swimmer in this aquatic environment. We in small classes, with a warm teach you how to handle your Swim School We fundamentally believe that and friendly environment. From baby with a gentle touch. swimming lessons should be fun Puggles Philosophy the absolute beginner to the and should enable the swimmer • Giving your loved ones a competitive swimmer requiring Baby and Toddler Swimming to develop the skills required to great start to swim, play and stroke development, we cater From three months to four years enjoy the water for a lifetime, learn together for all. old, working at the child’s pace whether it be for recreation • Adopting a gentle and kind through interactions based on or competition. Class sizes approach: focused on the trust, fun and love. are kept small and taught by parent-child relationship professional swimming teachers to promote freedom in Free Adult Aquaphobic lessons who are qualified and dedicated water enabling confidence Puggles offers three lessons to to flourish. help you overcome your fear of 07921 541058 / 07921 541058 water. 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07714 624234 [email protected] www.puggles-swim.co.uk Ben Collier Noah McGeough Child of Despite being born with a club foot, 12 year old Ben, Noah is five years old and suffers from Cystic has made it into the top teams for many different Fibrosis. It is a life limiting condition which involves Achievement sports including football, where he used to play for taking a lot of medication and daily physio. He has Sponsored by Puggles & Cambridge United Football Club and had a place in many hospital appointments and sometimes has the Norwich City Academy. Ben spent the first three to stay overnight. Despite these challenges, Noah Seahorse Swim Schools months of his life with his leg in a cast, with weekly loves life and just enjoys getting stuck in and getting cast changes, before having an operation to try to on with life. The person nominating Noah says, “He correct the foot. Overcoming these difficulties, he never complains and does it all, even when he is now plays for Ely City Football Club, City Cricket poorly. He is the happiest, funniest little boy with a The judges said, “This has been such Club, City of Ely Golf Club and On Par. He also plays great zest for life, and is always so brave. He is my a difficult, but rewarding task. The rugby. He excels academically, working hard to hero.” nominations have shown that all the achieve top marks in his tests. Ben is very supportive children entered are Heroes, from of others, running his own stall to raise a record Jorja Furze sum in the school fundraising event. He currently Jorjia is 11 years old. She was born as an amputee excelling in sport or academic work, sponsors a 4-year-old girl from Sierra Leone, and has endured numerous operations and to overcoming the most challenging regularly sending letters and parcels complications, yet she has emerged as a happy, situations bravely or doing both, strong and independent youngster. Every day, whilst many selflessly raised money The person nominating Ben says, “Ben brings in she overcomes personal difficulties whilst caring much more money than average student, he is truly for and helping others. Despite severe pain and for charities and others who were an amazing person.” challenges, she has set up the charity ‘STEEL BONES’ probably worse off than themselves. with a friend, to help people who are in a similar They are all winners!” Lynden Long situation. She helps run it, is an ambassador, and Lynden is an amazing sportsman. He loves football regularly undertakes fundraising to ensure it can having played for two football pre-academies, continue. In addition, she has set up a lunchtime Due to the exceptional amount Cambridge United and Norwich City. He loves club for other students, providing an opportunity to of nominations received for this tennis and over the last year has been performing in share the issues they may have and provide support category, at the discretion of the tournaments in Cambridge and Ipswich representing for each other. There is no doubt that she inspires organisers, it was felt necessary Ely Tennis Club and 10is Academy. However, as a and motivates others, caring passionately for their swimmer he raised £2,000 for Marie Curie in the welfare. She is probably unaware of the huge and to put forward an extra finalist for Swimathon event this year. He just saw the leaflet special impact she has on everyone around her. an award to really showcase how and wanted to do it as “it is good to help people special these children are. who are really, really unwell”. The person nominating The person nominating Jorja says, “the courage and Lynden says, “Lynden is a fun-loving boy who enjoys strength she demonstrates each day is phenomenal, every second of growing up in Ely and this has she never stops smiling, she is incredibly humble and allowed him to develop in so many ways.” doesn’t quite realise what a huge and special impact she has on everyone around her.” Meet the finalists and services that unite healthy behaviour with productivity. In 2016, Cybex joined Life Fitness, producing premium commercial fitness equipment for all types of exercisers from first-time users to professional athletes, whilst Indoor Cycling Group (ICG) is a leading provider of award winning indoor cycling equipment and innovative technology.

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Jack James A person nominating Alex says, “Alex started Jack is 15 years old and attends Witchford running at 50 and now, at 77 years old, he Village College where he has just completed just completed his 10th marathon, raising his exams. As well as studying hard, he has hundreds of pounds for charity, all despite his trained in Tang Soo Do since he was eight own battle with cancer.” years old, reaching international standards Meet the finalists in the world championships. In the Dutch open, he came third in Weapons and second day running of the Ely branch of MetroRod. Kevin is from a Groundworks background and he enjoys rolling up his sleeves, problem solving and the odd round of darts. MetroRod (Cambridge) is based on the belief that customers’ needs are of the utmost importance. His team are committed to meeting those needs, and as a result a high percentage of business is repeat customers and referrals. Within the branch there are four office staff, five engineers, six vans and a tanker.

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MetroRod (Cambridge) provides a Drain Care and Drain Naomi Sherwood, Business Development Manager said, “It Maintenance service based in , Ely. They have has been a real privilege to bring these inspiring awards to been providing this vital service in Cambridgeshire since the local community. I have loved every minute! Reading 1995. Operating an emergency 24/7 service means MetroRod about all our local heroes has been emotional - everyone is always ready to send a friendly and professional local is a winner and I hope this will enbolden and encourage engineer to investigate a problem straight away. All the people in the future.” drainage engineers are trained and equipped to the highest national industry standards and are CRB checked. 01353 653047 [email protected] MetroRod offers a variety of services, including high pressure www.metrorodcambridge.co.uk water jetting, CCTV surveys, clearing blockages, drain care and maintenance, drain rehabilitation and repair including patch lining, interceptor and septic tank emptying and its unique gutter clearance service. MetroRod is a national franchise with over 40 offices around the country. Business owner, Kevin Russell, personally manages the day-to- The Ely Hero Tristan Gordon delivered newspapers, walked people’s dogs Tristan, a Year 9 student at Soham College and helped to decorate people’s homes. Award was alone in the house when his father, who Bert’s Bingo Fundraisers are famous and well Sponsored by MetroRod suffers from post-traumatic stress, had a attended. His voice can be heard for many serious epileptic fit. Tristan found his father miles across the Fens as the villagers raise (Cambridge) on the bathroom floor where he had fallen. money for charity. He was unconscious and bleeding, after The judges said, “We have been hitting his head. Tristan called the Ambulance If only every community boasted someone Services immediately. He was asked to check like Bert, the world would certainly be a so impressed with the calibre if his father was breathing, but he wasn’t. The brighter place. of all of the nominations and Ambulance Services talked Tristan through even though a person may not CPR, and he performed this on his father, Jack James have been put through as a whilst waiting for the paramedics. This was Jack is 15 years old and attends Witchford Village College where he has just completed finalist, they are still a winner. very courageous and also extremely traumatic for Tristan. But he did save his father’s life. his exams. As well as studying hard, he has As a judging panel, we have trained in Tang Soo Do since he was eight had the privilege of selecting years old, reaching international standards Bert Russell in the world championships. In the Dutch nominations that we felt stood Bert Russell has been an integral part of village open, he came third in Weapons and second out over and above, and put life in Little Thetford, for most of his 90 years. in other forms last year. His dedication is them forward as finalists in The person nominating him says his, “kind commendable as he studies at college and deeds are woven into the fabric” of their sets a very high example to hundreds of other this category. These people community. students. He spends his free time officiating in have made an outstanding scoring and time keeping, giving back to the contribution to the community Despite his age, Bert still ensures Little community that trained him. in their various ways and we Thetford makes a good first impression by A person nominating James says, “an are proud to showcase these clearing overgrown bushes, planting flowers, picking up litter and tending to weeds – inspiration to students and staff at the college he attends.” people this evening.” whatever the weather and without ever being asked. Bert was the caretaker for the Village Hall for many years and he remains an active Meet the finalists member of the Trustees Committee. He has Welcome to the ‘contemporary vintage’ world of new UK duo Elma.

Elma comprises songwriter/guitarist/multi- instrumentalist Mark Ellis (best known as drummer of controversial indie band Hamfatter) and singer Ellie Gillett, straight out of university, her classically trained, intimate vocal style and irresistible personality, have proved an instant hit with the duo’s audiences.

As an antidote to the crazy exposure surrounding Hamfatter’s performance on Dragon’s Den and the hectic UK tour after the band’s indie chart success, Mark began penning simple, heart-felt songs which harked back to a less cynical age of pop music. When Mark first heard Ellie singing, he immediately knew hers was the perfect voice to bring these songs to life, both on stage and on record. Roddy Hart - BBC Radio Scotland

“Finely crafted and assured retro-pop from a promising young Elma were quickly scouted for support slots with the duo.” Beta Band’s Steve Mason (at The Junction, Cambridge) and cult ‘80s band The Bible (at Under the Bridge, Sue Marchant - BBC Radio Cambridgeshire Chelsea), alongside several highly-acclaimed headline performances. “Slo Mo used to be synonymous with The Matrix, but now it’s

Elma’s vibrant retro pop - the last thing you want to dodge!” Armed with a clutch of authentic, unforgettable songs including their debut single Slo-Mo and with their debut Maddie Hickish - BBC Radio 4 album on the go, it won’t be long before Elma’s unique “What butter does for crumpets, Elma will do for your life. ‘contemporary vintage’ sound takes the world by storm! Their music is delectable, comforting, fortifying and essential.” www.facebook.com/elmaband The Maltings, alongside the which can accommodate up Cathedral, is arguably one to 300 guests and includes of the city’s distinguishing a full stage, green room and landmarks. Set in the changing rooms. beautiful surroundings of Ely riverside, with stunning With excellent road links to views over the river Ouse the A14, A1 and M11, Ely’s and Marina, it’s the perfect rail station is just a 5 minute wedding venue. walk away, with quick links to Cambridge and the The Matlings prides itself surrounding areas. on on our friendly and high quality service, and is a fully The Maltings offers a small licensed venue, providing a number of free parking staffed licensed bar until late. spaces on site for event organisers, with free parking It is also licensed for also available 2 minutes walk wedding ceremonies. The from the venue. The Maltings Maltings includes four main looks forward to welcoming areas available for hire, from you to its beautiful venue! the beautiful Kempen room, which overlooks the marina 01353 662633 and is perfect for smaller [email protected] wedding ceremonies, to the www.themaltingsely.org.uk atmospheric Elysian hall, Fenland Spirit Services Fenland Spirit Services LawnmowerLawnmowerLawnmower Sales,ServicingSales,Servicing Sales, Servicing & Repairs & Repairs& Repairs ServicingServicingServicing from from £45 £45 £45 Demolition & Dismantling Strip Out Works PetrolPetrol lawnmowers lawnmowers and gardenand garden machinery machinery fully fully Site Clearance Asbestos Advice & Removal Petrol lawnmowersVHUYLFHGE\DTXDOLÀHGHQJLQHHUserviced byand a qualified garden engineer. machinery fully Groundworks Mobile Screening & Crushing BladeVHUYLFHGE\DTXDOLÀHGHQJLQHHU sharpening,Blade sharpening, collection collection available availablerefurbished mowers sold. Refurbished mowers sold Blade sharpening,TenTen Mile Milecollection Bank, Bank, Littleport Littleport available 01353 886132 CallCall us uson 0775on 07753 383 6499 836499 orRefurbished RUÀQGXVRQ/fenlandspiritservices mowers sold www.demcom.co.uk facebook/fenlandspiritservicesTen Mile Bank, Littleport Call us on 0775 383 6499 RUÀQGXVRQR facebook/fenlandspiritservices

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01353 882111 | www.infinitigraphics.co.uk A big “thank you” to those who have helped bring Ely Hero Awards 2017 to the city Luke Smith (Infiniti Graphics) A Special Event For designing the logo and branding, website, and all the For providing and setting up all the balloon table decorations. promo/literature. www.a-specialevent.co.uk www.infinitigraphics.co.uk The Maltings Sadie Finch VA For all the support, advice and assistance with the venue. For collating all the nominations, creating the Facebook and www.themaltingsely.org.uk Twitter pages and providing admin support. www.sadiefinch.com The Poets House For providing hospitality at the launch party and hosting the Greg Carter final judges meeting. For Audio-Visual presentation at the ceremony. www.poetshouse.uk.com www.gregcartervisualartist.weebly.com Tesco (Ely) Sailesh Raithatha (As in Boat Ltd) For providing the Prosecco for the welcome drinks. For proofreading this brochure. www.asinboat.com Waitrose (Ely) For providing the Prosecco for the welcome drinks. Burrows Bookshop For facilitating the postcard entries. The Judges www.burrowsbookshop.co.uk For all their time and hard work finalising all the nominations and choosing their winners. Leonie Smith For distributing all the posters to advertise the event and the And finally, a huge thanks to all of our category sponsors, many tweets and re-tweets from Ely Island Pie. the individuals who nominated and of course, our finalists who have made the very first Ely Hero Awards a huge Margaret Dagley (Naomi’s Mum) success! For moral support and organising the chocolates for the tables. Brochure designed and produced by www.elyheroawards.org.uk