Editor
WE’RE delighted to be able to announce the return of the Dunfermline Press / Central Fife Times Community Champion Awards – recognising the very best of everything about West and Central Fife.
The aim of the awards is to reward and celebrate the people who make our communities a better place.
And we are delighted to be bringing it back to our calendar this year.
The Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns meant we had to mothball this fantastic showcase of our area and its people, but we can’t wait to welcome all our local heroes back – in person – to Dunfermline’s Glen Pavilion to thank and reward them for all they do.
ress editor Kevin McRoberts said: “It’s been a difficult last few years for so many people in our communities, but these last few years have also seen a great many people step up to help those less fortunate than themselves, giving their time and efforts to make other people’s lives that little bit better.
“We want to recognise, reward and thank these amazing people.”
As in previous years, we’re asking you, our readers, to tell us about the unsung heroes who you believe deserve to be celebrated at our Community Champions Awards.
We’re aiming to celebrate our unsung heroes from sport, business, charity, music, schools and everyday life, giving them their moment in the limelight, and receiving richly deserved plaudits for their achievements.
If you know someone you believe should be recognised at our Community Champions Awards night at the Glen Pavilion on Thursday, June 15, please get in touch.
Go to our our awards website or give us a call for more information 07500 998 357.
There are 11 awards up for grabs and the closing date for nominations in Thursday, May 4.
The Community Champion Awards rely on the support of not only our readers, but some of West Fife’s big-hearted businesses.
And this year, Bandrum Nursing Home, TechnipFMC and Fife Council are generously supporting the awards.
Rachel Payne, managing director of Bandrum Nursing Home, said: “We are delighted to support the Community Champion Awards again this year.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the truly amazing things the people of Fife have done for the community.”
Ewan Reed, managing director at TechnipFMC Dunfermline Campus, commented: “As a responsible corporate citizen, we are proud to make a difference in our communities in Scotland by supporting local initiatives.
“That’s why we are pleased to renew our sponsorship with the Dunfermline Press Community Champion Awards this year. We hope our support can help to continue the great work to recognise the efforts of local people.”
Councillor James Calder, convener of the City of Dunfermline Area Committee, said he was delighted that Fife Council was supporting the Heart of Gold award at the Dunfermline Press Community Champion Awards.
“This award will recognise the outstanding contribution of a local resident going above and beyond to help our community,” he said.
“Ultimately these awards are really positive way of rewarding those that make our communities in Dunfermline and West Fife so special.
“As the City of Dunfermline Area convener, it is wonderful to see the extra effort made by so many, and I know that there are so many who make this such a wonderful place to live.”
Here are the categories for the Community Champions Awards 2023:
ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARD: This category celebrates a person or a business who have demonstrated a special entrepreneurial flair, and has turned this passion to help grow their local community.
SPORTING CHAMPION OF THE YEAR: For a local club/individual who is making an impact in the local sport, either on the pitch or off it. Who is the beating heart of local sport?
CHAMPION TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Everyone remembers their favourite teacher. This award recognises teachers who are bringing learning to life by engaging and inspiring all children and young people to fulfil their potential.
YOUNG ENTERPRISE CHAMPION sponsored by TechnipFMC plc: Recognises young people who have succeeded in starting a business, creating benefits for themselves and for their communities. This award celebrates the work accomplished by a young person demonstrating good business skills.
COMMUNITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR sponsored by Bandrum Nursing Home: Rewarding a local individual, 18 years and upwards who goes out of their way to help those around them. Someone whose actions are a force for good in the community who we all benefit from making our community a better place.
YOUTH COMMUNITY CHAMPION: We are looking for a young person between the ages of 13 – 18 who volunteers and makes a significant contribution to their local community. We know kids sometimes get a bad reputation. Tell us now about the kids whose heart is in the right place.
HEART OF GOLD sponsored by Fife Council: This award goes to someone who has made a contribution of outstanding significance to Central and West Fife. We will be recognising an adult whose actions, achievements, courage or bravery have touched the lives of others and made a difference. Someone special who truly has a heart of gold.
LITTLE CHAMPION OF THE YEAR: To recognise an outstanding child up to the age of 13 whose achievements, courage or bravery make your heart burst with pride.
CHARITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR: When it comes to charity, West Fife is as big-hearted as you can get. This award is for an individual or group, who have dedicated their lives to supporting an amazing cause. A chance to recognise the incredible work they undertake tirelessly.
LIVE MUSIC AWARD: This award will go to a local singer, band or group who put their heart and soul into every performance, whose talent makes us all extremely proud. Our finalists will have the opportunity to perform live on the night to around 300 guests.
HEALTH & CARE AWARD – NEW FOR 2023: The Health & Care Award will recognise the incredible health and care workers both at individual and team level, who are at the heart of our local community.
To make a nomination, got to our awards website.