Maldon Town Council celebrated community-spirited individuals and organisations for their work in Maldon at the Annual Community Awards on Tuesday (March 21).

This year, the Council says it was so inundated with nominations that it had to create two extra categories especially for 2023.

There was also an informative talk about the Moot Hall's Project 600, as guests caught up on the work of the Town Council throughout the past year.

The Town Mayor's Award for Community Service went to Julie Taylor, "for her constant contribution to improve the lives of others through her fundraising, education of knife crime, offering hot meals to those in need, delivering food parcels and always going above and beyond."

On Wednesday (March 22), Heybridge Residents Association presented a £416 donation to Julie Taylor towards the Liam Taylor Legacy. (Photo: Nub News)

Julie told Nub News she was "absolutely delighted" to win the award.

She said: "I am so grateful to everyone that voted for me, especially as it wasn't just for the cafe - it was also for my knife crime work which is so close to my heart."

Maldon Film Club won the Art and Culture Award "for providing much needed culture to our town, offering a multitude of films and entertainment throughout the year".

John Salisbury accepted the award on behalf of the club.

John Salisbury can often be found volunteering at the Maldon Visitor Information Centre in the High Street. (Photos: Nub News)

He told Nub News: "This award is well-deserved and recognises the hard work and commitment of all those who have been involved with the club since its formation in 2005.

"Much has been achieved and I look forward to playing an active role in the future growth, success and popularity of Maldon Film Club."

Borough Carpets' Ian Liston won Best Business Contribution to the Community, for supporting local charities and those in need, along with championing independent businesses in the town.

Ian told Nub News: "We are so proud to be part of such an amazing town.

"It is a place we love to call our home, and we will continue to embrace the community spirit of Maldon."

Borough Carpets were presented with their award this afternoon. (Photo: Borough Carpets)

Carer of the Year was awarded to Bluebird Care, which works "tirelessly" to offer a better quality of life for older people who wish to stay at home. Special mention went to carer Molly, "who sprinkles a little bit of happiness wherever she goes".

Citizen of the Year was awarded to Alan Smith, for raising thousands of pounds for charitable causes throughout the years, "making a significant contribution" to the town.

Two Community Impact awards were presented. One went to John Rowlinson, "a great example of how people who live in the community can help keep it safe", by volunteering as a member of the Essex Search and Rescue Service.

The second award was given to Kevin Jennings from the Salvation Army, for supporting the Maldon community.

Plume Academy teacher Andy Robinson was presented with the award for Educator of the Year, for his "enthusiastic" interaction with students and teachers, and his creative methods.

Andy is often found helping students at lunchtime, mentoring trainees and newly qualified teachers, and assisting students through the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme.

See all the winners here:

The Long Service Volunteer Award was presented to Margaret Beesley in recognition of her "tireless" efforts at Home-Start, for extensive fundraising, and for offering compassion, kindness and empathy to everybody she meets.

Wendy Munnion was praised for being an Outstanding Long Service Volunteer, a new award for 2023. She was awarded for her creativity and designs. Her floral displays at the Moot Hall and flower festivals are described as "a real treat".

The Young Achiever of the Year Award went to Plume Academy student William Frostick, "for his determination and drive in the most difficult of circumstances".

William's teachers said: "He never gives up and is a privilege to teach."

Finally, the Town Mayor's Special Recognition award, this year's second newest addition, was presented to William (Bill) Gellar. Bill is celebrated for his "outstanding creative contributions to the town".

Bill founded Maldon Art Club, which has taught and encouraged lots of budding artists throughout the decades. He has also worked as a tour guide at the Moot Hall for many years, and designed the Maldon Heritage signs in the town.

Read more

• Maldon District: Heybridge Residents Association event raises £416 for lifesaving bleed kits in memory of Liam Taylor
• Maldon Film Club's John Salisbury on moving to Maldon, making new friends, and his journey with Limebrook u3a
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