Over the past 21 years hundreds of local people, groups, organisations and businesses have deservedly received a Pride of Reading Award.
They include local heroes, neighbourhood champions, charities, businesses, schools and volunteers from communities across our town and all have made a dramatic impact.
The support of local businesses has been vital to the success of the awards and some have been sponsoring since the launch
in 2004.
It is thanks to their commitment that the awards continue to highlight the strong community spirit we have in Reading and the positive people that put others before themselves every day.
But equally important are those who take the time to nominate those they feel worthy of an award.
So the Pride of Reading Awards committee are asking the lovely people of Reading to once again put forward their choices for the range of awards.
Do you know a local individual, group, organisation or business making a real difference to their communities?
If so, get ready to nominate. Nominations will be featured across social media, Reading Today and listed on our website porawards.co.uk
It’s easy to nominate
When the nominations open tomorrow (Friday) simply scan the QR code or visit porawards.co.uk/nominate to nominate an individual, group, organisation or business.
Please provide as much information as possible, nominations will be judged on the information provided on the online form.
Nominations should be no more than 250 words and the closing date for nominations is August 1.
All nominations will be reviewed and those shortlisted invited to the Pride of Reading Awards Lunch and Presentations in October.
Please remember the awards are judged by an independent panel and not by the number of nominations.
It is important that you upload a photo of your nominee using the link on the form, as we cannot use nominations without a quality high resolution photograph.
If you have any questions please contact us on 07757 484096 or email info@porawards.co.uk
This year’s categories
Awards for individuals
Child of Courage, sponsor De Vere Wokefield Estate
Recognises a child’s courage and determination. A young person (16 or under) who has demonstrated courage through battling illness or other challenging circumstances.
Employee of the Year, sponsor Reading Buses
Recognises an employee whose contribution, behaviour or success has enhanced their company, or who has gone the extra mile for their customers.
Legacy Award, sponsor Vale & West
An individual who has made a remarkable contribution to Reading who through their commitment and determination has made a significant lasting impact on our town.
Local Hero, sponsor Green Park
Someone who through a special act of kindness, courage or selflessness, has made a positive difference to their community.
Neighbourhood Champion, sponsor Reading Football Club
A person who works tirelessly in their neighbourhood, in the voluntary sector, as a carer or for a community group or charity, by devoting their time to others.
The Chris Tarrant Award, sponsor The Oracle
Someone who lives or works in Reading who deserves special recognition.
The Inspiration Award, sponsor McDonald’s
A person who has inspired a community or inspired others to achieve something outstanding.
Or simply someone who is a positive role model for young people.
Awards for individuals/groups/organisations/businesses
Entrepreneur of the Year, Rabbits Vehicle Hire
An individual or group with a business venture in Reading, that has shown passion and commitment to their business to ensure success.
Hospitality Award, sponsor Cream
Recognising excellence in the hospitality industry, either an individual or business, who has shown resilience, outstanding dedication to their customers and a strong commitment to our town. Includes pubs, cafés, restaurants and hotels in the
Reading area.
Putting Reading on the Map, sponsors Jacobs the Jewellers and The Purple Turtle
Recognising a group, business or individual who by their commitment and dedication, will have raised the profile of our fantastic town in a positive and influential light regionally, nationally or internationally.
The Green Award, sponsor Tomato Energy
Individuals, community groups and businesses who have implemented a project that has saved resources, implemented green initiatives or introduced successful recycling or upcycling.
Volunteer/s of the Year, sponsor AB Walker
An individual or team engaged in diverse and challenging tasks or who have simply stepped up when needed to help others.
Awards for groups/organisations/businesses
Business in Action, sponsor Boyes Turner
Companies large and small, showing a commitment to working with the community. Two awards, for firms under 50 and over 50 employees.
Charity of the Year, sponsor Reading Today
Recognising a local charity that through working in partnership with businesses or the voluntary/public sector has made an amazing impact on our community.
Community of the Year, sponsor Hilton Reading
A neighbourhood that has encouraged community spirit and by working together has made their area a better place to live and thrive.
Cultural Contribution, sponsor M&G Real Estate
To recognise projects, organisations and people that contribute to the cultural life of Reading, either established or rising stars in music, drama, art and heritage.
Great Place to Work, sponsor Kingdom Rooms
A business, charity or community based organisation where employees love to work.
Independent Retailer of the Year, sponsors Reading BID and REDA
Independent retailers in Reading who are at the heart of their community, providing excellent customer service and promoting the work of small businesses in our town.
School of the Year, sponsor Qwerty
A school demonstrating exceptional achievement, open to nursery, primary, secondary and special schools in Reading.
Team of the Year, sponsor Cherubs No ordinary florist
This team has shown incredible energy and commitment in everything they do. From smashing goals to supporting each other and lifting those around them, they’ve gone the extra mile to make a real impact and set a brilliant example of what great teamwork looks like.
