25/11/2025
Community shines again at Spirit of Corby Awards 2025
Corby’s amazing community has been celebrated at this year’s Spirit of Corby Awards.
Organised by Corby Town Council and supported by sponsors, the awards recognised people and groups who have made outstanding contributions to the town.
The awards night took place at the VOCO Rockingham Forest Hotel in Corby on Friday 21st November. Nominees and their loved ones, sponsors and civic representatives attended.
This year over 4,000 responses were received over the voting period for those nominated in nine public categories, whose community contributions stood out over the last year.
In addition, town councillors made their selections in an additional two awards celebrating exceptional achievement over a longer period.
In the nine categories that the public voted on, the following nominees won their category:
Community Spirit Award sponsored by Eurokey:
Daniela Laslau – Dana won for her volunteering with Corby CAN, which holds community events that highlight the Eastern European community, and for offering mentorship and guidance.
Creative Spirit Award sponsored by Booths Garden Studios:
Emma Colquhoun - Emma has ensured the legacy of her daughter Hallie has continued by running Ignite Dance Space, which provides creative opportunities to over 160 children locally.
Educational Spirit Award sponsored by Tayto:
Lodge Park Academy – Lodge Park Academy recently improved its standing and educational quality, achieving its best ever post-16 results.
Club Spirit Award sponsored by Nike:
Rachael Millen/One Love Social Club – Rachael launched the club to give people with disabilities a safe space to socialise - in just a year it has blossomed into an amazing family that transforms members’ self-esteem.
Young Spirit Award sponsored by Stephen Sanderson Transport:
Jessica Davison – 7-year-old Jessica bravely kept her cool to raise help from paramedics for her mother who had suffered a seizure.
Health and Wellbeing Award sponsored by MPB Structures:
Active In Motion – the not-for-profit has delivered 12,000 accessible fitness sessions to older adults and those with long-term health conditions.
Youth Organisation Award sponsored by Rockingham Cars:
Stewarts and Lloyds Rugby Club Under-16’s – who this year became the first junior rugby side from Corby to win an East Midlands title and reached a cup final.
Public Sector Award sponsored by Stuart Charles Estate Agents:
Lynn Stewart – Lynn has made an exemplary contribution to Hazlewood Neighbourhood Centre and the Hazel Leys community, making it a safer and more connected place.
Volunteer Award sponsored by Ace Furniture:
Stephen Smith – Stephen is a familiar face at many Corby events and Kingswood Neighbourhood Centre, always volunteering with enthusiasm and dedication.
In the two categories decided by Town Councillors:
Living Legend Spirit sponsored by MR Industries:
Tracy Gallagher – Tracy’s career at Corby’s Pen Green Centre for Children and Families has been one of dedication, forging community partnerships and contributing to the continued success of the facility.
Special Spirit sponsored by Tollers Solicitors:
Northamptonshire Telegraph – for providing a vital service of local news for generations, charting the varied history of Corby and its extraordinary community.
In addition to the awards, the event also saw a live performance from One Love Social Club, while a raffle for the Mayor’s charities, Lakelands Hospice and Home-Start Corby, raised just over £1,000.
Leader of Corby Town Council, Cllr Simon Rielly said: “What a great night at the Spirit of Corby celebrating our town, its spirit, and all the amazing people who make it such a special place. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to such a fantastic evening. Your passion and hard work truly showcased the best of our community.”
Corby Town Council would like to thank all nominees and attendees, all sponsors and contributors, including VOCO Rockingham Forest Hotel and JTS Events.