Boston’s unsung champions took centre stage last night as Boston Borough Council hosted the 2024/2025 Boston Heroes Awards, shining a light on the individuals and groups who go above and beyond to make a difference in the community.
The ceremony, held inside the stunning setting of St Botolph’s Church, brought together nominees, families, councillors, and guests for an evening dedicated to recognising kindness, courage, and dedication across the borough.
From tireless charity fundraisers and volunteer group leaders to community safety champions and youth role models, this year’s Boston Heroes have all played a vital part in improving life for others in Boston.
The awards, part of Boston Borough Council’s commitment to fostering civic pride and community spirit, is a firm fixture in the local calendar, ensuring those making a quiet impact receive the recognition they deserve.
Group Champion:
Winner: Old Leake Community Hub
Runner Up: Boston Man vs Fat
Old Leake Community Hub volunteers provide a safe, warm and welcoming space with weekly entertainment, free refreshments, and support services, benefitting mental health and reducing homelessness.
Boston Man vs Fat are a group helping over 85 men lose weight and raising thousands for charities. Special mention to Tom Steadman, Joshua Dunworth and Chris Money for their dedication and organising charity events.
Other nominees in the Group Champion category are: Pescod Square Security, Tony Skinner Builder, Headway UK Lincolnshire, Memory Lane Dementia Day Care Service, The Wombles, The Kirton Crew, Believe Sport, The Biz School of Performing Arts, Lithuanian Community Centre and Fenside Community Centre.
Lifetime Achievement:
Winner: Alison Fairman
Runner Up: Ernie Napier
Alison Fairman is a pillar of the Boston community, involved in numerous causes, including Butterfly Hospice Trust and Boston in Bloom, she was awarded the British Empire Medal in the 2020 New Years Honours List and Honorary Freedom of Boston Borough. Alison continues to unite the community through her endeavours.
Ernie Napier has been a dedicated member of the Boston Preservation Trust for over 25 years, he has also been involved in many community projects and awards and is dedicated to making Boston the best it can be.
Other nominees for the Lifetime Achievement Award are: Linda Baxter and Pete Orrey.
Individual Award:
Winner: Dennis Watson
Runner Up: Sarah Burton
Dennis Watson is the heart and soul of Boston ABC (Amateur Boxing Club), the club provides a sanctuary for children and teenagers. It is more than a gym. For hundreds of children and teenagers, it is the place they find a purpose. Dennis is the centre of all of this.
Sarah Burton set up a local running group and has gone on to organise the Boston Santa Run and is also involved in the Boston Marathon committee.
Other nominees for the Individual Award are: Kath Archer-Wood, Josh Dunworth and Tom Steadman, Karena Hall, Rob Johnson, Chris Skinner, Melanie Hutchinson, Lyn Johnson, Cristina Warrant, Clive Parrish, Samantha Beeson, Dylan Taylor, Pete Orrey, Logan Lote and Patrick Clayton.
Young Person of the Year Award
Winner: Olivia Mumby-Croft
Runner Up: Chloe Ingamells
Runner Up: Patrick Clayton
Olivia Mumby-Croft was the Mayor’s Guide, supporting the Mayoral Party with kindness and dedication throughout the year.
Chloe Ingamells volunteers at a stage school despite personal challenges, she continues to inspire SEND children.
Patrick Clayton has shown remarkable bravery and compassion, saving lives on two occasions. First, he performed CPR on a man who had stopped breathing until help arrived. Second, he prevented a suicide by engaging the individual in conversation and calling 999. Patrick’s quick thinking and selflessness have made a significant impact on the individuals.
Other nominees for the Young Person of the Year Award are: Lily Mottram and Scarlett Smith.
