Civic Awards 2025 winners
The awards recognise and celebrate people from across Epping Forest district who tirelessly work to support their communities.
This year’s Civic Awards 2025 was held at the Delta by Marriott Hotel in Waltham Abbey on Friday evening (14 March).
Remarkable people
Each year we hold the Civic Awards to recognise the efforts of the remarkable people within our district, who make a difference and inspire others to do the same.
These people strive to make our world a better place, without looking for praise or tribute.
We also recognise and celebrate our emergency services, who are always there when we need them.
Chairman of the Council Cllr Les Burrows
Citizen of the Year
Our Citizen of the Year Award recognises the people in the district who go the extra mile to support their communities.
John Eagleton
As Chairman of the Colebrook Royals Football Club, John Eagleton’s experiences meant he was the ideal person to help the Limes Farm Community Group to set up a football club for the young people on the estate. He has dedicated so much of his time, knowledge and care into helping the Limes Farm Colts become the club it is today.
Without John’s commitment, care and coaching, this initiative would not have continued. It now has over 40 young people attending, is fully inclusive and has been pivotal in reducing anti-social behaviour on the estate. It helps participants to keep active, meet new friends and learn vital skills like teamwork and communication.
To help it become more self-sufficient, John has assisted the club in writing funding applications and has mentored members of the community as they gained their coaching qualifications.
John’s loyalty, dedication and constant support have strengthened relationships across the estate and further afield, families and friends have bonded over this beautiful game and the team has become a vital part of the Limes Farm community.
Young Citizen of the Year
The Young Citizen of the Year Award is a highly contested award. This year we had a number of outstanding nominations.
Winner of Young Citizen of the year
Kayden Richardson
Kayden Richardson, 16, juggles the demands of studying for his GCSEs and being a young carer. He gives back by volunteering at the Young Carers youth club. Described as a “phenomenal person,” he is hardworking, polite, and supportive to his peers. Kayden’s dedication and passion for helping others have made a significant impact.
Highly Commended
Davy Heys
Davy, 17, plans to pursue a career in the police. As the youngest Head Police Cadet at the Epping Forest Volunteer Police Cadets and Cadet of the Year, he represented Essex at Trooping of the Colour. He volunteers at community events, setting a great example.
Tommy Heys
Tommy, 16, embraces every challenge despite his dyslexia. As a member of 414 Squadron Epping and North Weald Air Cadets, he volunteers at community events and shares his dyslexia journey to help others overcome their own difficulties. His story was featured by the National RAF Inclusion Team.
Team of the Year award
Team of the Year provides an excellent opportunity to recognise teams throughout the district that deserve special recognition.
Waltham Abbey Voluntary Fire Service
This year’s Team of the Year award winners are the Waltham Abbey voluntary fire service crews have made a tremendous impact this year, raising over £3,000 for local initiatives.
Their fundraising efforts included car washes for the Epping Forest Christmas Giving Campaign and starter kits for families affected by domestic abuse. They also transformed an overgrown garden at a local school into a safe space for neurodiverse students, creating a place where everyone belongs.
Active Epping Forest Sports Award
Our district is fortunate to have a very strong sporting community legacy and it is important to acknowledge our young people’s sporting achievements through Active Epping Forest Sports Award.
Harry Trewartha
Harry has been part of the Chigwell Riding Trust community since he was 3.
A dedicated volunteer, Harry aims for a career working with horses. Last year, he was the overall class champion in the walk/trot/canter dressage open test, scoring the highest points across all age groups. He’s determined to qualify for European para competitions and plans to attend Fortune College in Hampshire to gain the necessary qualifications.
Creativity Award
The Creativity Award is offered to young people and organisations that show promise and make creative contributions to the arts within our district.
Milan Sangar
Milan Sangar is a versatile and dedicated artist, excelling in music, acting, and filmmaking. His passion for storytelling shines through his collaborations, new releases, and band performances.
Milan’s acting skills and commitment to developing complex characters have pushed him to grow with each performance. Milan is giving back to the Epping Forest community by helping produce a local show that brings people together.
Community service medals
The emergency services play a vital role in protecting us all and it is our honour to recognise the work of these services, and the people behind them.
East of England Ambulance Service
Sally Pattie was Essex’s first female paramedic. Her courage, passion, and determination in a male-dominated service paved the way for others.
Over her 44 years in service, Sally has saved countless lives and touched the hearts of patients and colleagues. A true pioneer in healthcare and an inspiration to future generations.
Essex Fire and Rescue Service
In September last year, Loughton and Harlow Red Watch crews responded to an overturned car in a river in Harlow.
Both crews displayed extreme courage and determination, working together in dangerous conditions to rescue the two men trapped in the car. Despite their best efforts, one man sadly did not survive.
The crews have been commended by Chief Fire Officer Rick Hylton for their incredible skill and bravery in handling this risky situation.
Essex Police
Sergeant Jamie Shepherd has shown tremendous commitment to combating local issues. His focus on reducing retail crime has strengthened relationships with the business community and significantly impacted public safety.
Sergeant Shepherd’s Retail Crime Plan addresses police response actions and includes preventative measures to reduce crime affecting business owners, employees, and the wider community. His proactive approach demonstrates how commitment, collaboration, and community engagement can create lasting change.
Youth Council Cup
The youth councillors are the voice of the district’s younger generation, giving the council a fresh perspective on the issues our younger residents face. They approach their work with confidence, maturity, passion and creativity.
Amber Griffiths
A dedicated youth council member that always goes the extra mile to help others. Her organisation and kindness make her an excellent role model and youth council ambassador.
Alexander Amoateng
One of our youngest councillors, he is passionate about community engagement. A key member of the Safer Epping Group, advocating for young people’s concerns.
Rhiana Ciuperca
Creator of the vaping awareness survey, demonstrating incredible diligence and creativity. Her efforts led to nearly 3,000 pupils participating. Vital to youth health initiatives.
Yuvan Kumar
Takes on responsibilities with confidence. His leadership in designing project merchandise and public speaking at the Christmas Carol Service showcases his growth and commitment.
Jacques Prinsloo
Fulfilled his ambition of becoming a youth councillor. His excellent attendance and enthusiasm highlight his commitment to positive change. Recently re-elected to the Young Essex Assembly.
Community Champions
Epping Forest Community Champions were recognised for their dedication and commitment to making the district a better place.
Over the past 12 months, the 23 Community Champions have contributed an average of 400 volunteer hours each month, helping with numerous projects, initiatives, and events all with the goal of improving the health and wellbeing of our local communities.
Congratulations to all our winners
The Civic Awards is such a special night, celebrating those unique people in our district who go that extra mile. To our special guests and winners, congratulations again, it is people like you who make the world a better place.
Thank you for your selflessness, generosity and compassion.
Council Chairman, Cllr Les Burrows
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