The awards, started by the Midsomer Norton Society in 2007, are a celebration of the community within Midsomer Norton and to give thanks for those heroes whose committed service benefits the town.

Held in St John’s Church, the event has become a regular highlight of the town’s civic calendar, thanking local residents and groups who volunteer their time. The awards presented are as follows:

Community Group of the Year was awarded to Wombles of Midsomer Norton and Surrounding Area, presented by Cllr Richard Robertson, in recognition of service to the community during lockdown and beyond in keeping streets and public areas free of litter.

Youth Achievement Award went to Sophie Rowe and Ruby Russell, presented by Cllr Pete Mocock, in recognition of their qualification for United Dance Organisation World Dance Championships and Olympic Championships, where Team England placed second in the world for hip hop, bringing home the silver trophy.

Youth Group Leader of the Year was presented to Jon Swift, given by Deputy Mayor Gordon Mackay, for his time and energy dedicated to the Junior section of the Midsomer Norton Rugby Club and refurbishing clubhouse facilities for families to enjoy.

Sports Achievement of the Year was given to Tom Smith, presented by Cllr Steve Plumley, for his role as Manager of Welton Rovers and managing the team to promotion to the Western Premier League.

Contribution to Community went to Martyn Plant, presented by Cllr Steve Plumley, in recognition of voluntary contributions to the town’s cultural events and beign the vision and driving force behind the Jubilee music day in the Town Park.

Community Volunteers of the Year went to two sets of people, the Midsomer Norton Community Pantry, presented by Cllr Christian Griffiths, for their establishment and maintenance of the Community Pantry which provides free food and essentials for anyone in need in the town, and Jon Durrant and Lottie Durrant, presented by Cllr Richard Robertson, in recognition of tireless community minded work through the Community Food Network, Welton Rovers, Town Council and Community Trust events.

Community Volunteer of the Year was given to Timothy Grautstuck, presented by Cllr Michael Evans,

for the lifeline offered to neighbours who were shielding during lockdown, shopping for vulnerable and isolated people.

Community Volunteer of the Year went to Toby Reakes, presented by Cllr Mike Moxham, in recognition of extensive voluntary work undertaken with 3SG, collecting medication for vulnerable people, delivering leaflets and COVID marshalling at Bath Racecourse.

Contribution to Civic Life was awarded to Rebecca Brooks, presented by Mayor Lynda Robertson, in recognition of service to the community through professional journalism and editorship of the Midsomer Norton, Radstock and District Journal.

Lifetime Achievement Award went to Elizabeth Maggs, presented by Deputy Mayor Gordon Mackay, for her years of service through Midsomer Norton Churches Together, managing local Trussell Trust food banks, her work for the Street Pastors, and maintaining a clothing and furniture bank for people in need.

Lifetime Achievement Award was also presented to Graeme Savage, by Mayor Lynda Robertson, for twenty-four years’ service to the Merriman Theatre Group, offering performance opportunities and skills development workshops for young people in Midsomer Norton.