2026 Award Winners
The Pride of Bracknell Forest
Awards winners 2026!
Our 2026 Winners
The winners of this year’s Pride of Bracknell Forest Awards were revealed on Friday, 24th of April at Easthampstead Park Hotel.
Shortlisted nominees came together for a fantastic ceremony and black-tie dinner, including performances from Sandhurst & District Corps of Drums, Uplands Primary School Choir, and the Artemis College Singers.
Discover more about our Gold and Silver Award Winners from 2026 below!
Business of the Year
British Medical Auctions
British Medical Auctions (BMA) is a standout business that puts people first. They specialise in reselling surplus and decommissioned medical equipment, reducing waste and connecting 20,000+ buyers across 100+ countries. Their monthly donations to Berkshire Youth fund core services alongside developing workshops to equip young people in Bracknell with the skills needed to thrive. BMA’s commitment to investing in people’s futures is clear to see and is what makes them highly deserving of recognition.
SIBIT
SIBIT, led by Simon Butterworth, is recognised for outstanding community impact. Simon consistently supports less IT-literate residents in Crowthorne, rarely charging for ad hoc help and minor repairs, and provides vital IT support to local charities free of charge. He reduces waste by refurbishing and redistributing laptops to COATS Crowthorne and students. SIBIT also supports young people through apprenticeships and work experience, making it an invaluable community asset.
Charity of the Year
Age Concern Bracknell Forest
For over 50 years, Age Concern Bracknell Forest has been a lifeline for many older people and their families. Staff are friendly and work hard to create a safe, uplifting space at the Day Centre. For many attendees, it is the only place they meet others, helping to prevent loneliness and foster valued friendships. Families feel reassured knowing their loved ones are supported through meaningful activities, nutritious meals, and companionship that truly improves quality of life.
The Ring ABC
The Ring ABC is an exceptional community boxing club run entirely by volunteers who give countless unpaid hours to support young people across Bracknell. Despite losing their home this year, the team has shown incredible resilience, securing temporary venues to keep the club running. Coaches travel at their own expense to competitions, acting as mentors and creating a family-like environment built on respect, belief and encouragement.
John Nike Pride of Bracknell Forest- Adult’s Award
John Symmonds
After losing his wife Ann in 2021, John decided to raise money for Thames Hospice where Ann was receiving palliative care. At 95 years old, John Symmonds became the world’s oldest wing-walker and has since completed a skydive and an abseil down the Spinnaker Tower. Through his incredible efforts, John has raised £19,500, which provided resources for 188 patients. Widely recognised in the media and admired in the community for his hands-on fundraising, John is a true local hero with seemingly no limit to his ambitions.
Andy Balfour
Andy Balfour has shown outstanding devotion supporting Bracknell Forest’s most vulnerable residents. As manager of the Bracknell Forest Council Community Hub, he is often the first point of contact for those in crisis, handling challenging situations with calmness and professionalism. He helps residents access vital services, complete applications, and connect with support agencies, ensuring no one is left without help. His kindness and resilience make a lasting difference to individuals and the wider community.
John Nike Pride of Bracknell Forest- Young Person’s Award
Amelia Walker
Amelia Walker is a valued member of Berkshire Birds of Prey. She has generously supported numerous events, prepared thousands of lucky dip prizes to raise funds, and is a compassionate leader for fellow volunteers. She has demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience while supporting her mother through terminal cancer and caring for her sister. Despite these challenges, Amelia consistently puts others before herself and always makes time to help those around her.
George Keen
At 15 years old, George Keen is an inspiring wildlife photographer whose passion and talent have captured the attention of the local community and his school. His photography is now proudly displayed and sold in a local craft shop. Recognised on social media and at nature reserves, George’s enthusiasm and dedication shine through, building confidence and inspiring others with his commitment to celebrating and protecting the natural world.
Long-Standing Service to the Community
Anne Jenkins
For over 25 years, Anne Jenkins has been a diligent volunteer for Home-Start Bracknell. She consistently provides weekly home-visits to support families experiencing a wide range of challenges, always offering kindness and empathy. Anne approaches every family with the same compassionate attitude, building trusting relationships, and creating a safe space where families feel truly heard. Her support has helped parents grow in confidence, improving life chances for themselves and their children.
Lou Holmes
Lou Holmes is a founding member and current chair of Berkshire Search and Rescue Dogs, dedicating 25 years to the cause. She has qualified six search dogs, with two currently operational, and within the last year has helped locate and save a missing person. Lou is a national assessor and trainer, supports handlers, coordinates callouts day and night, and contributes to national standards. Her commitment and leadership make her an inspiring and invaluable figure in our community.
School of the Year
Kennel Lane School
For families, nothing is more rewarding than seeing your child thrive beyond expectations, something Kennel Lane School achieves every day. A beacon of inclusive excellence in Bracknell Forest, the school supports pupils with diverse learning, medical, and emotional needs with dignity and care. Through its tailored TALENTS curriculum and enriching opportunities like horse riding and forest school, pupils gain confidence, independence, and skills that continually exceed expectations.
Great Hollands Primary School
Recognised by Ofsted for its impressive transformation, Great Hollands Primary School has rapidly improved through strong leadership and a clear vision for excellence. The school stands out for its proactive approach to inclusion, identifying individual needs early and providing tailored support to remove barriers. Teachers deliver engaging, personalised learning, while fostering a nurturing environment where every child feels understood, supported, and encouraged to thrive.
Sport & Achievement- Adult’s Award
Bracknell parkrun
Led by founder and event director Andy Scott, Bracknell parkrun has become one of Bracknell’s most valued community activities. Through the tireless team of 1,371 volunteers, they have been able to host 19,086 participants who have completed 140,256 parkruns, creating 21,671 personal bests. The team makes sure that every participant feels supported and never gets left behind. Their commitment and encouraging behaviour make them truly worthy of recognition.
Ruth Fettes
Ruth Fettes founded the Bracknell Cobras basketball club in 2010. She is the driving force behind their growth of over 500 junior members and 8 national league teams. Ruth has created opportunities for all, including sessions for children with special educational needs and free sessions for schools who cannot pay. From attracting financial support to driving minibuses to games, Ruth donates 100 hours a week to the club inspiring many future bright stars in the sport.
Sport & Achievement- Young Person’s Award
Elinor Sleigh, Huxley Davies & Oli Millington
Elinor, Huxley, and Oli made history by winning the England Golf National Junior Club Championship, representing Easthampstead Junior Golf Club. A first for both their club and Bracknell Forest, they competed against 31 teams from across the country showing remarkable determination and talent to secure their win. The trio are now giving talks to local schools about their love of the sport, encouraging more young people to get involved and believe in what they can achieve.
Ascot Heath Netball Team
Ascot Heath Netball Team showed incredible resilience, overcoming a challenging first season to achieve an unbeaten league-winning year in 2025. Through persistence and teamwork, they developed their skills and belief, ultimately winning the Bracknell Forest Netball League. Their journey has inspired their whole school community, boosting participation in sport, while their efforts to fundraise for kit show true team spirit on and off the court.
Teacher of the Year
Sam Casella
Sam is an exceptional teacher at Kennel Lane who has a strong ability to understand children with additional needs, seeing them as individuals and adapting his approach with patience and genuine care. He supports smooth transitions into full-time school, helping pupils settle through consistent routines and close communication with parents, including regular updates and responsiveness to concerns. He is a reassuring presence creating a safe and positive start to the day for every child.
Sally Watkins
Sally Watkins is a kind-hearted teacher who ensures every child feels heard and supported. During important moments in her pupils’ lives, she offers steady encouragement and reassurance, helping them build self-belief. Her care doesn’t end when the school year does, as she continues to champion her pupils long after they leave her class. Sally’s thoughtfulness is felt by both pupils and their families, leaving a lasting and meaningful impression.
Team of the Year
Artemis Studios
Artemis Studios has supported the Bracknell Forest community for nearly two decades, with many staff members growing up within the organisation themselves. Their shared experience creates a deeply caring and dedicated team. Despite budget challenges, they are committed to making the arts accessible to all. Supporting young people on a creative and personal level, the team continues to foster a warm and artistic environment for their students to succeed.
The Knit & Natter Group
The Knit & Natter Group (within Forget-me-Knot vintage clothing store) brings creativity and kindness to the heart of the local area. From their much-loved post box toppers, which brighten neighbourhood spaces and spark joy, to handcrafted items sold in support of charities, their work touches so many people. The group has created a welcoming space where individuals can share skills and combat loneliness, helping to strengthen both wellbeing and social connections.
Young Person in Business
Jack Poffley
Jack Poffley launched his pet-sitting business at just 14 years old, building a trusted local brand that has earned him loyal clients and five-star reviews. Proactive and driven, he secured training, insurance, and strong local partnerships. He also volunteers with Scouts and supports other young entrepreneurs and charities through his marketing skills, helping to increase engagement on social media. His independence and ambition mark him as an exceptional young business leader.
Sebastian Vince
The founder of “Seb Creates”, Sebastian has created a growing 3D printing business over the past year. Through his creativity and dedication, he produces and sells unique items and is willing to collaborate with customers on personalised pieces. With the money earned from his sales, Seb has made numerous donations to the Bracknell Forest community. His dedication, even at weekends, makes him an inspiring role model for other young people in the area.
Special Recognition
South Hill Park
South Hill Park Arts Centre has been at the heart of Bracknell for over 50 years, championing creativity and culture through theatre, music, film, workshops and community events. It offers a wide-ranging programme that engages people of all ages and backgrounds. Despite funding challenges, it continues to thrive as an accessible cultural hub, supported by dedicated staff and volunteers who ensure it remains a vital space for creativity, learning and shared experiences across the area.
FunctionAbility
Led by Lucinda and Lucy, FunctionAbility delivers neuro-affirming occupational therapy and speech and language support for people across Bracknell Forest. The team is highly skilled and tailors support to individual needs and interests to drive engagement and progress. Their assessments and ongoing assistance help families secure vital provision and improve outcomes. The team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure those they support can excel.
Do you know a local hero deserving of recognition?
