Unsung heroes recognised at civic awards

Solihull 's unsung heroes were recognised at the10th Solihull Civic Honours Awards, which returned for the first time since before the pandemic.

Between May and July, residents were invited to nominate people who have made a real difference to Solihull and who they believe deserve recognition for their community contributions.

The judging panel, consisting of councillors, officers, representation from community groups and the main sponsor, Touchwood, were then left with the tough task of reviewing the nominees and selecting this year 's winners.

In a ceremony at the Council 's Civic Suite, each award was presented by the award sponsor together with the mayor of Solihull, Councillor Ken Meeson.

The evening also featured music from Stagecoach Solihull, a local performing arts group.

The mayor (pictured) said: “After a three-year hiatus, it was wonderful for us to be able to host the Civic Honours Awards once again. The event truly is one of the highlights of the mayoral year.

“It was a pleasure to meet so many inspirational people and to hear their stories of commitment and service. I thank them for their enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work.

“I would also like to thank the many other, outstanding nominees who did not receive an award this year. As is always the way with such a process, unfortunately, not everyone can be a winner. Their devotion does not, however, go unnoticed, and I trust that with the continuation of these awards they will receive the recognition they deserve.

“I am truly honoured to represent a borough full of such inspiring people, devoted to making Solihull such a wonderful place. ”

The 2022 Solihull Civic Honours winners:

• Stephen Carr - Individual Community Involvement (sponsored by Birmingham Airport)
• Steve Goodchild - Individual Community Involvement (sponsored by Crowne Plaza Solihull)
• Happy Mamas Solihull - Group Community Involvement (sponsored by John Lewis Solihull)
• Ordinary Magic - Group Community Involvement (sponsored by Lucent Financial Planning Ltd)
• Clean and Green - Community Environment (sponsored by Birmingham Business Park)
• Sing! Bentley Heath Community Choir - Creative Arts (sponsored by Resorts World Arena)
• The Buck-it Boys, Bazzie Hines & Joshua Hines - Inspirational Young Person (sponsored by Correla)
• Art at the Heart CIC - Making a Difference for Young People (sponsored by DM & Co)
• David Vaux & Paul Jaques - Making a Difference for Young People (sponsored by MACC CARE)
• Altair Trampoline Club, Emma & Jon Wall - Sport (sponsored by NEC Group)
• Solihull & Small Health Athletic Club - Sport (sponsored by Specsavers Solihull)
• Elaine Butler - The Mayor 's Award (sponsored by Touchwood)