Search begins to find unsung heroes as Heart of Ulverston Awards 2025 are launched
- James Higgins
- Jan 30
- 3 min read
THE search is on once again this year to find the people, businesses and organisations who deserve recognition for their efforts to keep the heart of Ulverston beating so strongly.
The Heart of Ulverston Awards was re-launched last year by 32West - a PR agency founded in the town - following a six-year hiatus.
Nominations poured in to highlight and honour the exceptional work and efforts of individuals, teams and local firms culminating in a grand, black-tie awards evening and gala dinner at Ulverston's beautiful Coronation Hall.
Frank Stretton, a director at 32West, said after the success of the awards last year, there was no question they must return in 2025: "We were delighted with the response to the launch of the Heart of Ulverston Awards last year.
"Ulverston is renowned for its kind, hardworking people, strong, supportive community and resilient and innovative businesses.
"The nominations we received were fantastic and really told the stories of people doing and achieving incredible things - all of which contribute to making Ulverston the unique and special place that it is.
“The awards night was a true celebration and a very humbling experience for those who were lucky enough to attend.
Frank added: "We are grateful for the support of the steering committee, who represent different aspect of our community and the sponsors and suppliers who believe so fully in the Heart of Ulverston Awards that they are happy to contribute their time, funding and resources to enable them to take place again this year."
There will be 13 awards categories; Lifetime Achievement, Sports Performance of the Year, Employee of the Year, Teacher of the Year, Sports Volunteer of the Year, Community Group of the Year, Environment and Sustainability Award, Outstanding Courage Award, Best Hospitality Venue, Business in the Community, Citizen of the Year, Helping Hand Award, and Apprentice of the Year.
A panel of judges will create a shortlist before selecting an eventual winner based on how closely each nomination matches the category criteria.
The glittering awards night will take place in May and is being organised in conjunction with headline partners Ulverston BID, Siemens Energy and Bender UK.
Dennis Round, of Siemens Energy, said: “Ulverston is a town with a strong and special sense of community. It is filled with businesses, groups and residents who go out of their way to help each other and who deserve to be recognised for their incredible efforts. Siemens Energy are proud to sponsor the Heart of Ulverston Environment and Sustainability category to recognise the valuable contributions of those who are making a positive impact in our local community.”
Lisa Hudson, of Bender UK, said: "The Heart of Ulverston Awards is the perfect way to bring forward the stories of the town's amazing people and community, so that their actions can be heard, shared and recognised. I hope as many people as possible seize the opportunity to nominate their friends, colleagues, neighbours and local businesses for an award over the coming weeks."
Jan Hancock, of Ulverston BID, said: “The Ulverston Business Improvement District (BID) are thrilled once again to be a headline sponsor of the Heart of Ulverston Awards.
“After the resounding success of last year’s awards which showcased the diverse and innovative skill that Ulverston has to offer, the BID directors felt the awards aligned with our core beliefs and delivered back rewards and recognition of the businesses and organisations that makes the Ulverston BID and the thriving town of Ulverston possible.”
Organisers 32West have extended their thanks to both category and headline sponsors whose support allows the awards to go ahead. A limited number of category sponsorships are still available, with anyone who would like to find out more asked to email info@32West.co.uk
Comments