Heart of Ulverston finalists revealed following tough judging process

A LIST of worthy finalists has been confirmed for the prestigious 2025 Heart of Ulverston Awards. 

Nominations flew in for the 13 categories that make up the special community awards which were re-launched last year following a six-year hiatus by Ulverston-based PR firm 32West. 

A steering committee selected from across the community met to assess the nominations in a tough process lasting several hours before agreeing on the finalists in each category. 

The judging day was particularly difficult this year as the calibre of submissions surpassed all expectations. However, all finalists have now been confirmed with preparations for the black-tie awards evening and gala dinner taking place behind the scenes. 

The glittering, invite-only Heart of Ulverston Awards 2025 will take place at the Coronation Hall, in May.

Ulverston Town Councillor Jackie Drake, a member of the Heart of Ulverston Awards Steering Group, said: "Ulverston is renowned far and wide for its unique community spirit - something everyone connected with Ulverston is especially proud of. 

"We knew, therefore, that assessing the nominations and shortlisting for each of the categories would be no easy feat. 

"That said, reading so many exceptional submissions has been a truly uplifting experience and I think everyone on the steering committee walked away feeling completely inspired by the people, groups and businesses we are lucky enough to have in this special town." 

Nominations were made via the Heart of Ulverston website and offered people the chance to recognise the efforts of their friends, neighbours, volunteers and businesses who go the extra mile for others and the community as a whole. 

These were judged against the criteria set out for each category - with those considered the best matches shortlisted for an award.  

The winners will be revealed at the exclusive, invite-only ceremony on Thursday, May 15 at Ulverston's grand Coronation Hall.  

Citizen of the Year: 

Mike McPhillips 

Reverend Madi Simpson 

Sheila Bull 

Sports Volunteer of the Year:  

Pat Thomas and Mike Oliver 

Doreene Kenyon 

Alan Regan 

Community Group of the Year: 

Ulverston Parish Church 

Andy's Man Club 

Ulverston Town Band Training 

Best Hospitality Venue of the Year: 

Base Restaurant 

Moma's Kitchen 

The Hope and Anchor 

Employee of the Year: 

Cathy Smithson 

Caitlin Thackarah 

Doreen Gibbons 

Environment and Sustainability Award: 

The Roxy Collective 

Gill Banks Project 

Ulverston in Bloom 

Sports Performance of the Year: 

Peggie Lancaster 

Noah Cook 

Daisy Drage 

Apprentice of the Year: 

George McCullough 

Rebekah Thompson 

Daniel Undabarrena Jones 

Teacher of the Year: 

Emma Wakefield 

James Maher 

Deirdre Dobson 

Business in the Community: 

The Cumbria Way 

The Wall – John Holden 

Moma’s Kitchen 

Helping Hand Award: 

Hannah Roberts 

Bryan Caine 

Sheila Bull 

Further winners will be announced at the Heart of Ulverston Awards evening. 

Paul Hornby MBE, Managing Director of JF Hornby & Co Chartered Accountants, which is sponsoring the Community Group of the Year Award, said: "These awards are a true celebration of all that is uniquely Ulverston and a fitting way to celebrate the incredible people who give so much to the town and its community. 

"We thank everyone who sent in a nomination and wish all those shortlisted the very best of luck at this year's Heart of Ulverston Awards." 

ENDS