Celebrating Local Heroes

ROCHFORD District Council proudly celebrated this year’s outstanding community members at the annual Citizen of the Year Awards.
The event took place at The Freight House, Rochford, and was dedicated to honouring residents who have made meaningful contributions to the district.
Recognising achievements across four award categories, the evening highlighted the efforts of individuals who have consistently given their time and energy to support others and strengthen their local communities.
The volunteers of the Hockley & Hawkwell Day Centre were announced as Rochford District Council’s Citizen of the Year 2026, recognising a group whose dedication and compassion have transformed the lives of older residents across the district and beyond.
The volunteers generously give their time to cook and serve meals, organise activities, provide transport, and most importantly, offer friendship and companionship, ensuring no one is left isolated. Their work helps prevent loneliness and supports wellbeing for people across Hockley, Hawkwell, Ashingdon, Rochford, and Rayleigh.
Through their care and commitment, they have created a welcoming and vibrant community space that restores social connections, brings joy and provides a lifeline to countless residents.
One supporter said: “Hockley & Hawkwell Day Centre is a life saver and changes lives… it made my mother-in-law feel loved and cared for, and she couldn’t wait to attend every week.”
This year’s winners also include: Young Citizen of the Year – Louis Martin.
Demonstrating extraordinary generosity, leadership and selflessness at such a young age, Louis, aged just 11, has independently raised thousands of pounds for charities including Macmillan Cancer Support and Great Ormond Street Hospital. By giving up his own time to help others and inspiring both young people and adults alike. Louis has shown that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference.
Charitable Support Award – Lel Sweetman. Lel’s dedication to the community goes far beyond expectations. Through the East Essex Hackspace, he shares his skills in repair and electronics, inspiring learning, sustainability and collaboration across Essex. Always generous with his time, Lel supports individuals and groups alike – often outside regular hours – combining expertise with patience, humour and kindness. His selfless commitment has made a lasting impact on countless people.
Community Spirit Award – Kerri Eves. Kerri Eves has shown extraordinary dedication to supporting adoptive families, vulnerable children and the wider community. Since 2003, Kerri established and sustained bi-monthly support groups, founded toddler initiatives, organised educational projects such as Cooking on a Budget, and played a key role in setting up the Community Supermarket, ensuring essential resources reach those in need. Despite personal challenges, she continues to give her time, energy and resources selflessly, fostering inclusion, wellbeing and a stronger, more connected community.
Volunteer Group of the Year – East Essex Hackspace. Essex Hackspace was recognised for its outstanding community contribution. Through tireless volunteering, the team provides access to tools, workshops and practical expertise, empowering people of all ages to learn new skills, gain confidence and build connections. From refurbishing and distributing laptops during the pandemic to running repair cafés, youth sessions and community events, their dedication has made a real difference to lives across the district and beyond.
Following the ceremony, Chairman of Rochford District Council, Coun Jo McPherson, said: “Congratulations to this year’s winners and nominees. It is people like you who are the glue that holds our community together.
“I was pleased to see so many strong nominations come forward, allowing us to recognise the help and support which often goes unseen, and I encourage residents to continue nominating deserving individuals in future years.”
Picture: Chairman of Rochford District Council Coun Jo McPherson with the winners and nominees of the 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards
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