Celebrating Unsung Heroes: A Night of Inspiration in Sussex and Surrey
The annual BBC Radio Sussex and BBC Radio Surrey Make A Difference Awards 2026 took center stage, shining a brilliant spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of local heroes who have positively impacted their communities. The prestigious ceremony took place at The Chequer Mead Theatre in East Grinstead on September 22, where winners were celebrated for their selfless dedication and service.
Honoring Dedication and Service
This year’s awards showcased a diverse array of winners, each with remarkable stories of resilience and hope. Juliet Fielder, who received the Volunteer Award posthumously, inspired many by transforming her own stage four lung cancer diagnosis into an impactful campaign aimed at helping others. Such dedication exemplifies the spirit of community and selflessness that these awards strive to recognize.
Young Heroes Making Waves
Among the winners, Zac Knight was honored as the Young Hero for his outstanding fundraising efforts and advocacy for Young Epilepsy, stemming from his personal journey with the condition since childhood. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential in young individuals to affect change and provide crucial support to those in need.
Long-Standing Community Contributions
Jane Slipper, who has devoted over 45 years to serving her village, received the Great Neighbour Award, further illustrating the profound impact of long-term dedication in community service. Additionally, Pauline Draper was recognized for creating inclusive swimming opportunities for disabled individuals, showcasing the importance of accessibility in community programs.
A Collective Impact
Other noteworthy awards went to individuals like Nathan Harman for wildlife rescue efforts, Rachel Wood for environmental advocacy, and Diana Levantine, who has dedicated decades to helping children through the Sussex Snowdrop Trust. Community group Befriended was also honored for its vital work in combating loneliness among older people in Mid Sussex, highlighting the importance of community connections.
Mark Carter, executive producer for BBC Radio Sussex and BBC Radio Surrey, reflected on the enduring significance of the awards since their inception in 2011, noting the continued excellence of both finalists and winners. Mims Davies, MP for East Grinstead and Uckfield, praised the event as an opportunity to recognize the powerful contributions of local individuals who truly make a difference.
As communities continue to face various challenges, celebrating such inspiring stories offers hope and motivation for others to join in the effort to uplift and support one another.
