Bedford Borough Council is thrilled to announce the resounding success of the 29th annual Bedford Sports and Physical Activity Awards. Held on Monday, December 9, 2024, at the Bedford Corn Exchange, the ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of individuals, teams, and organisations across the borough.

With a record-breaking 157 nominations and over 515 guests in attendance, the evening showcased the incredible depth and breadth of sporting talent within Bedford Borough. The awards recognised a diverse range of accomplishments, from elite athletes to dedicated volunteers and inspiring community initiatives.

Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, expressed their enthusiasm, stating; "The Bedford Sports and Physical Activity Awards once again highlighted the exceptional dedication and talent within our communities. It's truly inspiring to witness the passion and commitment of our local sporting heroes."

Key award winners:

• Club of the Year (sponsored by Be Active): Bedford Hockey Club
• Community Club/Group Award (sponsored by Better & GLL Sports Foundation): Parkinson's UK Bedford and District Support Group
• Community Club/Group Award, Special Commendation: Deaf Gentle Fit Club, Access Bedfordshire
• Primary School of the Year (sponsored by Times Tables Rock Stars): Ursula Taylor C of E Primary School
• Secondary School of the Year: Kempston Academy
• Young Volunteer of the Year (sponsored by Bedford Physical Education Old Students' Association): Manpriya Sira – Hockey
• Young Volunteer of the Year, Special Commendation: Sam Miller – Water Sports
• Junior Disability Sports Personality of the Year (sponsored by Gale Family Charity Trust): Archie Freeman – Basketball
• Junior Personality of the Year (sponsored by the Rotary Club of Bedford Park): Thaila-Jade Mason – Athletics
• Junior Personality of the Year, Special Commendation: Rory Luddington – Sailing
• Team of the Year (sponsored by the University of Bedfordshire): Bedford Blues Women – Rugby
• Coach of the Year (sponsored by The Bedford College Group): Amber Forman – Dance
• Community Person Award (sponsored by the Bedford Sports Foundation): Harrison Barnes – Personal Training
• Community Person Award, Special Commendation: Abid Hussain – Cricket
• Unsung Hero (sponsored by The Harpur Trust): Jean Fitch – Hockey
• Adult Disability Sports Personality of the Year (sponsored by the Manor Hospital, part of Circle Health Group): John Hollowell – Lawn Bowls
• Adult Personality of the Year (sponsored by Jewson Partnership Solutions): Laura Allen – Judo
• Service to Sport (sponsored by Bedford Borough Council): Ian Brown – Football
• Service to Sport, Special Commendation: Jan Emms – Football
• Service to Sport, Special Commendation: Carl Hazelwood – Boxing

A complete list of winners and nominees is available at www.bedford.gov.uk/sportsawards

Councillor Sarah Gallagher concluded, "These awards are a testament to the vibrant sporting spirit within our borough. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their incredible contributions. Their dedication inspires us all."

For more information on sports and physical activity in Bedford Borough, please visit: www.bedford.gov.uk/sport