Community Group of the Year
(Sponsored by Cherwell District Council)
We are looking for voluntary or professionally run groups, large or small, that have made a real difference in their field. Judges will be considering how the organisation meets its objectives, the commitment of those involved and the impact it makes in the community. Nominees could include locally run branches of national organisations and groups such as neighbourhood watch schemes, Scout or Guide groups, village committees and sports associations, though this list of examples is not meant to be exhaustive.

Volunteer Worker of the Year
Do you know someone who gives up their own time to help others? There are hundreds of such unsung heroes working in our community to improve the quality of all our lives, from those who organise group activities to those who support individuals in various ways. We are looking for someone who has made a special contribution.

Urban Project of the Year
Successful nominations will have made a strong impact on their community. Judges will be looking at how and why the project was conceived, the response and level of support it generated and how it fulfilled its aims.

Rural Project of the Year
(Sponsored by Karcher UK)
Schemes to enhance rural communities or the countryside are what we are looking for here. Is there a project in your village that has helped to bring everyone together and make it a better place to live? Or do you know of a project that has benefited the rural environment or economy? Again, judges will be looking at how and why the project was conceived, the response and level of support it generated and how it fulfilled its aims.

Fundraiser of the Year
(Sponsored by Spratt Endicot)
The actual amount of money raised will not carry as much weight in this category as the way in which the community has been inspired to support the particular cause.
Creativity, enthusiasm and leadership are all qualities the judges will be looking for. This category is open to an individual or group.

Barter Card Business Community Project of the Year (Sponsored by Bartercard)
Has your company been involved in a particular project or does it have a scheme to support other community initiatives? We are looking for a business team that has shown real commitment to the community. It may have used its specialist skills and knowledge to bring a project or projects to fruition or taken a lead in fundraising.

Fairtrade Business of the Year
(Sponsored by Sainsbury’s)
A variety of businesses have rallied to the cause and enabled Banbury to claim Fairtrade status this year. Our winner will demonstrate real commitment, either selling Fairtrade goods or encouraging their use in the business.

Trainee of the Year
(Sponsored by Colin Sanders Innovation Centre)
Does your business employ an exceptional apprentice or trainee? Judges will be looking for someone who has made a strong impression with their colleagues through their attitude, aptitude and desire to succeed. The desire to play a crucial role as part of a winning team as well as to succeed in personal ambitions will also be taken into consideration.

Teacher of the Year
(Sponsored by Smiths of Bloxham)
Do you know an outstanding and inspirational teacher? We are looking for a special individual who could be nominated by schools, colleagues, pupils or parents for their contribution to education.

Sportsperson of the Year
Do you know an outstanding and inspirational teacher? We are looking for a special individual who could be nominated by schools, colleagues, pupils or parents for their contribution to education.

Junior Sportsperson of the Year
To recognise the achievement of an individual who has had a successful year of competition and possesses a bright future in their chosen sport. Male and female nominees for the award should be under 18 years of age and live in Banbury or represent a team/ club/school based in the Banbury area.

Fine Lady of Banbury
Help us find a special person to give this title a genuine, contemporary meaning. She could be someone you know as your mum, sister, daughter, friend or colleague, or just someone who has made an extraordinary contribution to your life or lives of those around you. She may not ‘have music wherever she goes’, but in your eyes she will have a magical quality.

Young Hero Award
We are looking for a young person (aged 18 or under) who has made a lasting impression either through a single good deed or perhaps an ongoing commitment. This is a golden opportunity to recognise the positive contribution so many young people make in our community.

The Paul Bithell Memorial Award (Sponsored by the Banbury Guardian)
This winner will be chosen by Banbury Guardian readers. We will be asking you to vote for the nomination you feel worthy of the title in memory of Paul, a former editor of the Banbury Guardian who died of cancer in 2002. The award will reflect the commitment Paul showed to the community during his time here and will have pride of place as the award of popular choice.

Community Awards 2006 Categories