Organisations and individuals who have helped shape Salford and the city’s communities have been recognised as part of the centenary celebrations at an awards ceremony yesterday evening (15th October) to mark Salford’s 100th birthday.
Nominations reflected the remarkable range of organisations, community groups and individuals, from grassroots voluntary groups and charities to organisations supporting young people, celebrating Salford's heritage, strengthening communities and contributing to the local economy.
With such a strong and varied list of nominations, selecting the award recipients was not an easy task. The judging panel recognised the exceptional contributions being made across the city, with the awards providing an opportunity to celebrate just some of the people, organisations and their work.
Three main awards and five special commendations were presented, celebrating the community spirit, pride and determination that have been part of Salford's identity for generations.
Salford CVS received the Community Engagement and Inclusion Award, Salford Lads and Girls Club received the Civic Pride and Identity Award, and Lowry received the Impact for City and Economy Award.
Five special commendations were also awarded to Salford City FC Foundation, Worsley Village Community Association, Salford Youth Zone, Gemma Fish (founder of the Bridgewater Foundation Salford) and Hamilton Davies Trust, recognising the difference they make to communities across Salford.
Salford Ceremonial Mayor, Councillor Robin Garrido, said:
“It was a privilege to join so many people and organisations from across Salford to celebrate the contribution they have made to our city. These awards are a fitting way to mark our centenary, recognising the people, organisations and communities that have helped make Salford what it is today.”
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:
"Salford has a long history of people and organisations coming together to support their communities, and that spirit has been at the heart of our city for the past 100 years. The nominations for these awards reflect the incredible range of contributions made by individuals, charities, voluntary groups and organisations across Salford. They demonstrate just how fortunate we are to have such a strong and committed community and voluntary sector."
Ben Whalley, Salford CVS Chair, commented:
"[What a] Heartwarming evening at the Salford Centenary Awards last night, celebrating 100 years of Salford as a city!
I was absolutely delighted to see Salford CVS recognised with the Community Engagement and Inclusion Award. This was alongside other amazing organisations and community champions who just blew me away with their passion and work across this City. I felt a little bit like an imposter accepting the recognition, because it’s the incredible people who work and volunteer at Salford CVS, alongside the amazing people and communities across Salford, who make this City such a special place.But… I couldn’t be prouder to be Chair of the Board of Trustees of such a fantastic organisation, and to play even a small part in its story. A huge thank you to Alison Page and Salford CVS colleagues for the invitation, and congratulations to everyone recognised on the night. Thanks to Stephen Young’s team and the city’s partners for putting on the event."