The Ely Hero Awards are back, and nominations are open!

I'm delighted to be one of the judges for the Ely Hero Awards again this year. It's something I look forward to every year, and the launch event on Monday evening at Poets House was a brilliant way to kick things off.

The 2026 awards are the ninth year running, which is a real milestone for a community initiative that started from scratch and has grown into something genuinely special. The evening had a lovely mix of returning faces, new supporters, and the kind of warmth you only get when people are genuinely invested in something.

We were joined by His Majesty's Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire, Mrs Sue Freestone, who spoke about the royal family's interest in celebrating community stories and the recognition that several past winners have received as a result. That never gets old to hear.

The Ely Hero Awards Charity of the Year is Arthur Rank Hospice, which is a cause close to many people in the area, and it was great to hear more about how the awards will be supporting them throughout the season.

I should also mention: I was on a team with my clients Red Shoes Accounting for the evening's spaghetti tower challenge, and we won. My job was to stick the spaghettin in the marshallmallows ready for the build. 34 inches. A hamper of chocolate. No notes. Let me know if you ever need any spaghetti sticking in marshmallows.

Now, the important bit.

Nominations are open, and I'd really encourage you to put someone forward. The categories this year are:

The Janet Eisold Smiliest Server Award, Colleague of the Year, Caring Companion, Most Amazing Professional, Neighbour of the Year, The Mike Rouse Community Champion Award, Environmental Champion, Best Teacher Award, Child of Achievement, Sporting Hero, and The Ely Hero Award.

If someone in your life goes above and beyond, quietly and consistently, this is the moment to say so publicly. The ceremony is in September at the Maltings in Ely, and it's a genuinely lovely evening.

Nominations are open now at www.elyheroawards.org.uk/nominate. It takes minutes and could mean the world to someone who deserves the recognition.