Unsung community heroes from across Derby have been honoured for their efforts to make the city a better place.
Derby City Council’s annual Civic Awards provide an opportunity to formally recognise individuals and organisations from Derby who go above and beyond for their local communities, but whose work may often go unrecognised.
Nominations were received from city councillors and members of the public to recognise those who have helped build stronger, kinder and more inclusive communities – from helping people with health challenges and preventing anti-social behaviour to preserving our city’s heritage and environment.
Award winners were welcomed to a civic reception at the Council House on Wednesday 2 September, where they were presented with their awards by the Mayor of the City of Derby, Councillor Jonathan Smale.
Councillor Smale said:
It was a great honour to recognise just a few of the many people in our communities who go above and beyond every day to make the city a better place for everyone.
The Civic Awards are a fantastic way of reflecting our city’s diversity, heritage and strong communities. I encourage anyone who knows someone who goes above and beyond for our city to nominate them for next year’s awards so we can shine a light on their incredible work.
Nominations for the 2026-27 Civic Awards are now open and will close on 31 March 2027. More information, including details on how to submit a nomination, can be found on the Council’s website.
Meet the 2025-26 Civic Award winners:
Dale Bryan
Dale has been recognised for her dedication to organising and supporting charity fundraising events.
Sunny Mahmood
Owner of the 3 Chefs takeaway in Chaddesden, Sunny generously supports the local community through fundraising and affordable meal provision.
The Pink Ladies
This group of dedicated volunteers has been recognised for their efforts establishing a community food bank and providing hot meals for people in Chellaston.
Sid Panday
As General Manager of Cosmo Restaurant in Derby, Sid has supported numerous charitable initiatives across the city over the last 12 years.
Julian Neale
Founder of Derby’s Impaired Vision Society (DIVS) and the Vision Loss Hub at the Council House, this award is for his support for partially sighted and blind people in Derby.
Rachel Wild
Works tirelessly through Tegan’s Butterflies in Paradise to organise events and provide support for families of children with Special Educational Needs.
Kevin Marshall
A long-standing volunteer in Derby who is a dedicated ambassador for people with dementia and their carers while also managing his own caring role.
Neil Roberts
Nominated for his significant contribution to diabetes education and health outcomes for the Allestree community, after founding a diabetes self-help group over 10 years ago.
John Bowden
As Chair of the Chellaston Residents Association, John has been actively involved in supporting community development and local initiatives.
Jessica McDonald
A dedicated volunteer in the Sinfin and Osmaston community for over 20 years, organising Community Fun Days, children’s activities and fundraising events.
Sharron Davies
Secretary of the Chaddesden Traders Association, commended for her outstanding commitment to organising community events.
Ralph Eales
A retired Royal Marines officer who has been recognised for his dedication to supporting armed forces veterans and the Chaddesden community.
Dawn Gee
Nominated for her work to bring the community together and founding the Carlisle Against Crime group in Littleover, which has been running for over 25 years.
Jay Plimmer
A member of the Activity and Wellbeing Team at Moorways and founder of BMX group Ozzy Wheels, which supports young people through activities which have reduced anti-social behaviour.
The Derby Repair Café volunteers
This team’s volunteers are being recognised for giving their time to repair household items free of charge, encouraging reuse and reducing waste.
David and Pauline Jennings
As the driving force behind the Friends of Derby River Gardens, they have been nominated for their dedication to caring for public spaces along the riverside.
Jean and Fred Moss
Dedicated volunteers Jean and Fred are being recognised for their outstanding commitment to caring for Nottingham Road Cemetery.
Maxwell Craven
A lifelong supporter of promoting Derby’s history and heritage who has helped preserve historic buildings and developed the city’s Blue Plaque scheme.
Ernie Cripps
A volunteer with Derby Athletics Club for an incredible 70 years, Ernie is being recognised for a lifetime’s dedication to the sport, remaining active as he approaches his 100th birthday.