Midsomer Norton Town Council has honoured individuals and groups who have made significant contributions to the local community at this year’s civic awards ceremony.
The event, held during the annual town meeting on April 29 at Welton Rovers Football Club, gave the council a chance to recognise those who support the town through voluntary work and community involvement, following public nominations.
Among the winners were the Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton and Radstock which was judged Community Group of the Year. The club, represented by president Debby Huxham and fellow members, was recognised for a range of events including the annual boot swap, charity golf day, a Christmas Carol service at St John’s Church, a quiz night, and an annual concert at Downside School.
Ms Huxham accepted the award on behalf of the club from Mayor of Midsomer Norton Councillor Martyn Plant.
Doors opened at 6pm and the annual meeting got underway at 6:30pm. Residents were able to catch up on local projects, raise issues, and chat directly with councillors.
The mayor gave an update on the town’s progress and future plans and also introduced some of this year’s grant recipients, including Anji Henderson from SWAN Transport, Dom Chambers from Somer Valley FM, and Alex Davis from Midsomer Norton Community Trust, who also spoke on behalf of Midsomer Norton and Radstock Rugby Club.
Speaking at the event, Mayor Martyn Plant said: “The evening was a testament to the vibrant community spirit of Midsomer Norton, celebrating the hard work and dedication of its residents.”
The full list of Civic Award winners for 2025 is as follows:
- Young Person of the Year (under 25s): George Barley-Lockett, for completing a six-week sponsored litter pick with his family, raising nearly £200 for local charity Time Is Precious.
- Person of the Year (over 25s): Michelle Noel, for supporting neighbours by caring for pets, shopping for the housebound, and offering help to those in need.
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Steve Plumley, for more than a decade of service as a Town Councillor and long-standing volunteer with the Community Trust.
- Community Youth Group of the Year: Midsomer Norton Swimming Squads at Team Bath AS, for helping local swimmers progress from beginner level to national and international competition.
- Community Group of the Year: Rotary Club of Midsomer Norton & Radstock, for service across the community, including support for young people, the elderly and disabled, and creating social opportunities.
- Community Volunteers of the Year: Greenway Bin Volunteers, for regularly emptying bins along the Greenway.
- Mayor’s Award: Club Rock, for providing music and performance training to young people through work with Performing Arts teachers at Norton Hill and Somervale Schools.
- Mayor’s Award: The Pix, for their performances at community events and venues, and for winning last year’s Battle of the Bands.
- Environmental Award: Friends of Silver Street Nature Reserve, for preserving the woodland and wildlife habitat for the benefit of the community.
- Sports Achievement of the Year: Midsomer Norton Rugby Club, for winning the Papa Johns Community Cup, the league, and the Somerset Vase for a record third time.