Category: News

Unsung heroes from across Tendring have once again been honoured in the district’s own version of the New Year’s honours list.

The 14 recipients of this year’s Pride of Tendring Awards, now celebrating its 13th anniversary, have been announced today (January 9, 2025).

These awards will be followed by a special ceremony at Clacton’s Princes Theatre on February 28, where all recipients will be officially recognised and presented with their awards.

This initiative aims to celebrate those who make a significant impact on the lives of others in the community.

The awards, run by Tendring District Council (TDC) and supported by Rose Builders, My Big Fat Greek Taverna and Wyvernwood adventure park, highlight advocates from all walks of life who contribute selflessly to their community.

District councillors have nominated individuals, groups, and organisations from across Tendring, all of whom are highly deserving of this recognition.

TDC Chairman Dan Casey expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all supporters of the awards.

“Across Tendring, we have countless remarkable individuals, with nominations pouring in from every corner of our district,” he said.

“Our mission is to celebrate these previously unsung heroes and heroines.

“The calibre of nominees has been exceptional, and the Pride of Tendring Awards is our way of acknowledging those who selflessly dedicate their time to our community without seeking recognition or reward.

“There is an abundance of incredible work happening behind the scenes that often goes unnoticed, and it is only fitting that we honour these extraordinary groups and individuals who make Tendring such a wonderful place.

“May this inspire many more to engage in volunteering, fostering the next generation of honourees in the years to come.”

The list of recipients is as follows:

The Harwich Festival

Nominated by The Labour Group

The Harwich Festival, led by artistic director Peter Davis and general manager Chris Berwick, has evolved into a year-round arts hub. It hosts gigs, theatre, art exhibitions, and workshops, supporting local arts groups and enriching the community with diverse cultural activities.

The Oakstones Senior Club

Nominated by Councillor Mike Bush

Founded in 1959, The Oakstones Senior Club has been a cornerstone for elderly residents, offering social activities, guest speakers, and community events. Meeting at Great Oakley Village Hall, the club fosters community cohesion and combats isolation in rural parishes.

Kate and Simon Tavener

Nominated by Councillor Matthew Bensilum

For more than 20 years, Kate and Simon Tavener have been lifesaving Community First Responders. They attend emergency medical calls, provide CPR training, and supported vulnerable residents during the pandemic, demonstrating unwavering dedication to their community.

Robert Passmore

Nominated by Councillor Bill Davidson

Robert Passmore, a dedicated community volunteer, has served in the army and police. He has raised funds through endurance runs, maintained community facilities, and supported mental health initiatives, exemplifying resilience and service.

Lindsey Bell

Nominated by Councillor Mick Barry

Lindsey Bell set a world record by hiking the entire British coastline to raise funds for MIND and National Trails UK. Covering 7,178.7 miles in 276 days, she raised over £10,000 and promoted the benefits of walking and nature.

Lawford Football Club

Nominated by Councillors Giancarlo Guglielmi and Terry Barrett

Lawford Football Club, with 19 teams and 50 volunteers, has significantly contributed to community cohesion and physical well-being. Their state-of-the-art pavilion and well-maintained pitches have made them a cornerstone of local sports since 2011.

James Burns and Robert Keenan, Beewise Security

Nominated by Councillor Dan Casey

James Burns has organised Christmas hampers, raised funds for Essex Air Ambulance, and donated bleed kits, saving lives. His ‘Save a Life, Ditch the Knife’ initiative and community support have made a lasting impact in Clacton and Jaywick Sands.

Julia Clarke

Nominated by Councillor Gemma Stephenson

Julia Clarke has dedicated over 40 years to the musical and theatrical communities. As choir mistress and a key figure in local theatre, her contributions have enriched lives, provided comfort, and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts in Tendring.

Shama Martin

Nominated by Councillor Geeta Sudra

Shama Martin, founder of Martin’s United Foundation, tirelessly supports Tendring’s homeless and financially struggling residents. His charity shop in Clacton provides essential resources like bedding, clothing, and food, making a significant positive impact on the community.

Jill Joshua

Nominated by Councillor Ann Oxley

Jill Joshua, lead volunteer of Walton and District Community Foodbank, has been a dedicated leader since its inception. She runs multiple foodbank sessions, spearheads community projects, and ensures support for those in need, making a lasting impact on Walton-on-the-Naze.

Rob Trimmer and Trudy Farquhar

Nominated by Councillor Andy Baker

Rob Trimmer and Trudy Farquhar, leaders of the Sea Cadets Unit TS Atherstone, have transformed the unit into a thriving organisation. Their dedication to teaching life skills and building confidence in young cadets has made a profound impact on the community.

Tom Anderson

Nominated by Councillors Carrie Doyle and Adrian Smith

Tom Anderson, Holland-on-Sea’s beloved lollipop man, volunteers tirelessly for local schools and charities. Known for his cheerful demeanour, he raises funds for the Poppy Appeal and supports numerous community initiatives, making a significant impact on the community.

Maureen Cochlin

Nominated by Councillor Mark Stephenson

Maureen Cochlin, a dedicated volunteer, serves as magazine editor for the Holland Residents’ Association and supports various community initiatives. Her efforts in collecting food and toiletries for those in need and her involvement in local projects make her a valued community member.

Mel Paris

Nominated by Councillor Sarah Newton

Mel Paris, organiser of Clacton Parkrun and the Great Bentley Half Marathon, dedicates her time to promoting community fitness. Her leadership in local running events encourages people to stay active and improve their well-being.

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Council leaders have described £20million of projects to help regenerate Clacton and Jaywick Sands as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”.

Tendring District Council’s (TDC) Cabinet has backed a whole host of schemes aimed at regenerating the town as part of a new Community Regeneration Partnership with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The council’s Cabinet approved the list of 15 projects and a delivery programme at a meeting on Friday, 20 December.

The projects include £3million to help improve Clacton Leisure Centre to become a new Active Wellbeing Centre and £2million for the NHS to contribute towards building a new urgent treatment centre and primary care facility at Clacton Hospital.

It also includes working with Essex County Council on a proposed £2.5million scheme to expand the Tudor Fields to Jaywick Sands walking and cycling route, which could also serve as an evacuation route and £5million for acquiring and repurposing a disused town centre building for community and cultural use.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Ivan Henderson, Deputy Leader of TDC and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, said: “This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver transformative interventions across our district.

Photos: Clacton Town Square, Clacton Leisure Centre, Tudor Fields Jaywick.

“These projects will significantly improve the quality of life, access to opportunities and health and wellbeing of our residents.

“The projects chosen by government ministers for investment have been developed through community engagement and include initiatives like improvements to Clacton town centre and the seafront public realm, improvements to open spaces in Jaywick Sands, repurposing disused buildings on the seafront to create an arts community micro venue and refurbishing and repurposing Martello Tower E.”

The council’s Cabinet approved the start of work on the first of four waves of projects as well as £100,000 to create a cultural masterplan for the town centre.

The first set of projects include £500,000 for a seafront art and community micro venue, £500,000 to improve tired shopfronts, £210,000 to provide three new community transport mini-buses and £200,000 to expand the work of the Jaywick Sands Healthy Homes initiative, which will help towards the acquisition of derelict and long-term vacant sites.

The second wave of projects is set to be brought to Cabinet for approval in early 2025.

TDC is working closely with Essex County Council, which aims to secure formal approval for a number of the schemes it will be leading on early in the new year.

These include the £1.3million town centre and seafront public realm improvements, a £230,000 project for upgrading and improving bus stops and shelters on bus routes and a £200,000 scheme to equip the planned skills centre at the Clacton Library site.

Councillor Lee Scott, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration, said: “This is an exciting package of proposals for Clacton and Jaywick Sands. The proposed improvements will make a difference to the lives of residents by improving sustainable transport connections, upgrading the public realm in Clacton town centre and creating opportunities for residents to learn new skills.

“We are pleased to be working with Tendring District Council on the proposals, which tie in closely with wider regeneration plans for the area.

“We look forward to engaging directly with residents on the proposed projects as they move forward.”

The Sunspot development in Jaywick Sands has been shortlisted in the prestigious Institute of Economic Development (IED) Annual Awards 2024.

The Sunspot has been recognised in the Social Value Champion of the Year category, sponsored by Social Value Engine, highlighting its significant contribution to social value creation and positive community impact.

Now open for a year and run by Tendring District Council (TDC), Sunspot is a £5.3million workspace development, featuring 24 commercial units, a covered market, event space, café, and other amenities.

The project received substantial funding from various sources, including £2.39million from the Government’s Getting Building Fund administered by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP), £2.04million from Essex County Council (ECC), and £816,000 from TDC. Additionally, part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation is being used for operating costs.

Councillor Ivan Henderson, TDC Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, expressed his pride in the recognition: “The Sunspot project was designed to be a gateway to Jaywick Sands, and being shortlisted for this award confirms that we have achieved our goal.

“The development is thriving, attracting businesses and visitors alike. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved.”

Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning and Regeneration at Essex County Council, added: “It is fantastic to see the Sunspot recognised on a national level.

“This space is not only a hub for businesses but also a valued destination for residents and visitors. I extend my gratitude to all who contributed to making this development a reality.”

The winners of the IED Annual Awards 2024 will be announced at a ceremony on 6th November at BMA House in London.