We are thrilled to announce our Rose of Northamptonshire Award winners for 2026. 

All of our award winners work tirelessly to make their local community a better place.  

Please do join us in sending huge congratulations to: 

Kim Allibone
Kim founded Advice Northants, using her own experiences to support people facing financial hardship, housing challenges and isolation. Even after relocating, she continued to give back by creating a community library and swap shop, helping local residents access essential items and stay connected.

Alison Andrews 
Alison has been a dedicated volunteer at Wicksteed Park for over five years, always stepping in to help wherever she is needed. She brings not only enthusiasm but also knowledge, helping visitors feel welcome and sharing her passion for the park’s history and future. Whether supporting events, suggesting improvements or working alongside fellow volunteers, Alison consistently puts the charity first. Her quiet dedication and genuine care make her a true friend to the park and an invaluable part of the community. 

Matthew Attfield 
Matthew is the driving force behind The Good Pizza Community, a volunteer-led project bringing people together through food and generosity. In just one year, he has helped raise over £10,000 for local charities, dedicating countless hours to organising events and supporting volunteers. His passion has created more than just fundraising – it has built a sense of pride and connection across Corby. 

Baby Basics Volunteer Team 
The Baby Basics volunteer team give thousands of hours each year to support families with essential items for their babies. From sorting donations to preparing Moses baskets, their work provides both practical help and emotional support. They ensure every family feels cared for and valued. Together, they are making a life-changing impact across Northamptonshire. 

Kate Booth 
Kate has given more than 40 years of unwavering support to her community, always putting others before herself. As Secretary of the Neighbourhood Association, she has consistently gone above and beyond to bring people together, strengthen local voice, and drive positive change. Kate is a passionate champion for council tenants, ensuring their concerns are heard and acted upon. Alongside this, she has raised vital funds for cancer therapies, making a real difference to those facing the toughest battles. 

Emma Briggs 
Emma founded Northants SEND Mummas to create a vital support network for mums and carers of children with SEND. Alongside working full-time and raising a family, she organises events, workshops and activities that have become a lifeline for many. She is always there to support others, offering understanding and encouragement. Emma’s dedication has built a strong, caring community from the ground up. 

Cllr Mike Brightman 
Mike plays an essential role in his community as a councillor, volunteer and organiser. From running the village minibus service to bringing people together through local events, he works tirelessly for others. His efforts connect residents across generations and strengthen community spirit. Mike’s dedication makes a meaningful difference every single week. 

Ellen Burgess 
Ellen is a passionate volunteer and Chair of Corby Community Arts Association, guiding the organisation through both challenges and successes. She shares her creative skills generously, supporting groups and helping to organise exhibitions and community projects. Ellen consistently encourages others to get involved and develop their talents. Her commitment has strengthened the local arts community for many. 

Maggie Clare 
Maggie volunteers regularly at her local community café, bringing energy and positivity to everyone she meets. She helps create a warm and welcoming space where people can connect and feel supported. Her dedication and enthusiasm never go unnoticed. Maggie is an inspiration across generations. 

Helen Clifford 
Helen has brought passion and dedication to her role at Space2Talk, helping expand mental health support across the community. Her work helps create safe spaces where people feel heard and understood. Helen’s resilience and compassion have a powerful impact. 

Rocky Coles 
Rocky has helped transform St Giles Churchyard into a welcoming, environmentally rich community space. Combining professional expertise with personal dedication, he leads projects that improve both the space and people’s connection to it. Using his knowledge as a horticulturist, Rocky has helped lead everything from tree, bulb and native species planting to protecting wildflower areas and improving biodiversity with swift boxes. He has also been the driving force behind imaginative public engagement projects, including the memorable shoe planting initiative and educational biodiversity explainers in the churchyard. His passion has made the churchyard a source of pride for Northampton. 

Emma Colquhoun 
Following the loss of her daughter, Hallie Mae, Emma has shown extraordinary strength by creating Ignite Dance Space in Corby—a safe and inclusive environment supporting wellbeing, creativity and connection. What began as a personal way to cope with grief has grown into a thriving community hub offering outreach programmes, mental health support and opportunities for hundreds of people. Emma has created more than a dance school; she has built a place where people feel seen, supported and empowered. 

Peter Cooper
Peter has been the driving force behind Badby Village Hall, dedicating countless hours to its management, improvement and long-term future. From securing funding to overseeing refurbishments, he ensures the space remains a welcoming and well-used hub for local residents. His work supports everything from community events to social groups, helping bring people together. Peter’s commitment has kept this vital community space thriving.

Maureen Core 
Since retiring, Maureen has devoted her time to supporting people with disabilities and older residents through volunteering. Between 2016 and 2025, Maureen was a Trustee of SERVE, a Northamptonshire charity supporting the elderly and adults with disabilities. With her characteristic energy and her devotion to those less fortunate than herself, Maureen worked tirelessly to ensure that SERVE’s beneficiaries received the care and attention they needed. Her work has made a real and lasting difference to many lives. 

Deidre Daish 
Deidre has spent many years supporting people living with dementia. She offers not just care, but companionship and understanding to both individuals and their families. Her work helps reduce loneliness and build meaningful connections. Deidre is incredibly attentive and always notices when someone may feel anxious or alone, offering quiet support when it is needed most. Deidre’s kindness is deeply valued by all she supports. 

Ian Davies 
Ian is a much-loved volunteer at The Core at Corby Cube, supporting countless performances over the years. With a smile and a passion for the arts, he helps create a welcoming atmosphere for audiences. His enthusiasm, energy and commitment bring joy to everyone he meets. Ian is a valued and familiar part of the community. 

Olly Davis
Olly volunteers up to five days a week at the Hope Centre, supporting people experiencing homelessness and hardship. Through his work, he has grown in confidence and become a welcoming, friendly presence for those accessing services. He brings warmth, humour and understanding to every interaction, helping others feel valued and supported.

Mary Docherty 
Mary is the founder of Sea of Support and a passionate advocate for neurodiverse families. She dedicates huge amounts of time to raising awareness, supporting families and running events to make a difference. Alongside this, Mary also takes part in various fundraisers for various charities, as well as helping at her local cubs and volunteering at the Junior Park Run every week. Her kindness, energy and commitment make her an inspiration to many. 

Dunelm Team (Amanda and colleagues)
Amanda and the Dunelm team have made a huge difference through the Delivering Joy campaign, supporting thousands of local families with donated gifts. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that even the most vulnerable people feel remembered and cared for, adapting their approach to reach those most in need. Their efforts bring comfort, dignity and joy at important times of year. The team’s compassion and commitment have touched countless lives across the community.

Paige Foley 
Paige volunteers over 20 hours a week at the Doddridge Centre, supporting individuals with both practical needs and emotional wellbeing. She works closely with people accessing services, building trust and helping them feel valued and supported. Beyond this, Paige is a vital safeguard for our most vulnerable families. She has navigated medical emergencies, covered sick leave, and de-escalated volatile situations with a calm, non-judgmental grace that ensures both staff safety and client dignity. Her compassionate approach has helped many regain confidence and stability. 

Steve Gibson 
Steve has dedicated over 1,000 hours as a Community First Responder, often being first on the scene in emergency situations. Alongside this, he delivers CPR training in schools and the community, helping equip others with life-saving skills. His commitment extends far beyond volunteering, creating a ripple effect of awareness and preparedness. 

Cindy Hancock 
Cindy is a true community champion, supporting her local larder, running a popular book exchange and contributing to village life in many ways. As an exam invigilator, she supports local education with calm reliability. Cindy also contributes to the village newsletter and continuously steps up for countless other community activities. Her generosity, energy, and commitment make her an invaluable asset and a truly inspiring volunteer.  

Faye Harris 
Faye has dedicated 18 years to supporting young people in Corby as a Youth Pastor at Hope Church. She creates safe, welcoming spaces where young people can grow, connect and build confidence. Through schools and community outreach, she reaches even more young lives. Her passion for raising young leaders has meant that many of her young people have been given the skills to become leaders themselves in a variety of settings. Regularly running a weekly youth group and a large Sunday gathering for 60+ young people each week, Faye has consistently given them a safe space to explore faith, identity and purpose. 

Robert Jones 
Rob volunteers as a Community Companion, supporting carers and older people in need. He makes a visit to an older person to give them a break from their caring role and to provide some different social contact for the person they are caring for. Rob does this alongside being an unpaid carer himself and also volunteering in the community with military veterans and being part of the Northants Military Veterans Breakfast Club. He goes the extra mile, not just offering companionship but providing practical help that transforms lives. 

Robert Kendall 
Rob has spent many years supporting community theatre as Chair of The Masque Theatre. He is involved in every aspect, from performing to maintenance and fundraising. Rob has dedicated his life to arts and culture. As well as being the Chair of Masque, he is also a volunteer for 78 Derngate. His passion ensures the arts remain accessible and thriving. 

Chandrakant Kishan 
Chand is the backbone of a vital food aid service, ensuring it runs smoothly and efficiently every week. He shares his knowledge, trains volunteers and supports those facing hardship with compassion.  Chand continuously shares his extensive past professional experiences from supporting vulnerable young people, leading Duke of Edinburgh Awards, and advising on financial wellbeing. He trains volunteers on manual handling, recycling, and best practice in food aid delivery. His willingness to share his knowledge, skills and his practical support has enhanced the confidence and skills of both volunteers and staff. 

Heather Korbey 
Heather runs a welcoming community café that has become a vital space for connection and support. She creates an environment where people feel comfortable, valued and able to talk openly, helping reduce isolation for many who attend. Her work running an Action for Happiness Happy Café promoting more happiness across Northampton has also inspired similar initiatives in other areas. Heather’s warmth and dedication make a lasting difference to her community. 

Elona Latifi 
Elona has supported countless individuals in the Albanian and wider community in Northamptonshire for more than 10 years, through emotional and practical help during difficult times. Through her voluntary work she has helped mothers, children, and elderly people facing language barriers feel supported, included and less isolated. She has created community groups, educational activities and safe spaces where people can connect, learn and support one another. She treats everyone with dignity and respect, always putting others before herself. Her kindness has helped people rebuild confidence and connection. 

Simon Malin
Simon is a dedicated First Responder Coordinator who gives his time to ensure emergency support is available when it is needed most. He not only trains and supports his team, but regularly attends call-outs himself, often being first on the scene in critical situations. His leadership, calmness and commitment help save lives and support the wider community.

Frank Mba 
Frank is known for his kindness and generosity, supporting vulnerable individuals both practically and emotionally. He has gone as far as providing accommodation for those facing homelessness. Frank started volunteering with United African Association shortly after becoming a student at the University of Northampton over 3 years ago and has continued helping and being involved. He very quickly became involved in various charity activities including helping at the foodbank, community lunches, befriending and wellbeing activities. 

John Morris 
John has spent years supporting people through the Hope Centre, always showing kindness and patience. He promotes the organisation wherever he goes, helping others access support. His warmth creates a welcoming environment. John is a valued presence in the community. 

Mick Murray 
For 60 years, Mick has brought people together through music, reducing isolation and supporting wellbeing. Through performances and online shows, he connects communities across generations. Mike performs live gigs at Northampton Conservative Club and runs an annual fundraising gig on behalf of Macmillan Cancer Support, in memory of his late wife, Val, which has raised around £8,000 to support cancer sufferers in Northants. 

John Parker 
John has been a volunteer at Towcester Community Larder for 3.5 years, tirelessly collecting surplus food and helping distribute it to those in need. He is a member of the volunteer driving team and collects Larder food surplus from Fareshare distribution hubs in Milton Keynes, Leicester and Birmingham. He also gives up part of his weekend to collect food from local supermarkets, to stop it from going to waste. His work reduces waste and supports families across the community. 

Nalini Patel 
Nalini is a warm and compassionate volunteer who supports others through Northamptonshire Carers as well as Information and Wellbeing Hubs. Nalini has spent her life working in healthcare as a nurse, caring not only for people’s physical health but also for their emotional wellbeing. This shines through in everything she does. She provides encouragement, kindness and a listening ear to those who need it most. 

Shardaben Patel 
After moving to Northampton as a single widow, Shardaben courageously rebuilt her life—making new friends, gaining confidence, and becoming an integral part of the local community. Today, Shardamasi gives back through her involvement in volunteering activities, supporting community groups, and helping at the café. She helps create a welcoming environment where people feel comfortable and connected. Her resilience, warmth and kindness uplift those around her. 

Barbara Rawcliffe 
Barbara has been a cornerstone of Fermynwoods Contemporary Art for nearly 20 years, transforming a single visit into a lifelong commitment to supporting young people, especially those excluded from mainstream education. Through her work with The CE Academy and the Alternative Provision programme, she has helped create meaningful creative opportunities for vulnerable young people. Even after retiring, she continues to return—leading workshops at short notice, mentoring staff and offering steady, compassionate support. Barbara’s dedication, kindness and quiet leadership have left a lasting impact on countless lives and communities. 

Paris Robinson 
Paris organises an incredible Christmas hamper project, supporting hundreds of elderly residents in Brixworth each year. She coordinates donations, volunteers and deliveries to make it all possible. This has been running for a number of years now with the biggest one to date in December 2025 - 250 hampers which included 12,500 items. Her work brings the whole community together. Paris’s dedication spreads joy where it’s needed most. 

Jane Serbyn 
Jane gives her time selflessly to support her church and wider community in Kingsthorpe. From organising wellbeing groups to cooking meals and helping individuals in need, she is always there. Jane organises a well-being club once a week for approx 40 elderly and lonely people who share company and a small lunch laid on all free of charge and cooked by Jane. She is also a member of the Food Bank committee and cooks at the well-being café once a month. Her warmth and energy bring people together.

Geoff Shaw 
Geoff has spent years raising funds and supporting community events through the Round Table. He has done countless charity rides, and is always on the Christmas Float every year in all weathers. Geoff was instrumental in bringing the round table float to less privileged children in the area. His dedication brings joy to families across the area. 

Caroline Smith 
Caroline has been a dedicated volunteer with the Happy@Home project for the past four years, building a life-changing friendship with Pansy, whom she visits every week without fail. Through her support, Caroline has helped Pansy regain confidence and independence after years of isolation, enjoying outings together like trips to garden centres and meals out—all at her own expense. Alongside this, Caroline plays a key role in breakfast clubs and events, baking, organising activities and even dressing up to bring joy to others. Her kindness, consistency and genuine care have made a lasting and deeply personal difference. 

Christopher Smith 
Since losing his daughter Esmé in 2022, Chris has shown extraordinary strength by turning his grief into powerful advocacy for families experiencing baby loss, particularly supporting fathers and partners. Through events in her memory, including runs, community fundraising and a family fun day, he has helped raise over £6,000 to improve care for others facing similar loss. He is not afraid to start difficult but vital conversations, using local networks to challenge the stigma around baby loss with honesty and compassion.

Stanwick 10K Races Team 
The Stanwick 10K Races Team are behind a much-loved Easter Monday tradition that has brought their village together for over two decades. Entirely volunteer-led, they organise both 10K and 2K races that attract runners, families and visitors, creating a real sense of pride and identity while putting Stanwick on the map. Now in its 24th year since being relaunched in 2001, the event raises vital funds for local charities while promoting health, inclusion and community spirit. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to giving back make a lasting difference far beyond race day. 

Anna Tebbutt 
Anna has made an incredible impact on her estate, showing remarkable dedication despite currently being in kidney failure and awaiting a transplant. She regularly maintains the area - trimming trees, clearing weeds, removing graffiti and even creating a planted roundabout that brings colour and pride to the neighbourhood. Her efforts have transformed overlooked spaces, including uncovering a little waterfall now enjoyed by residents and local wildlife.

Anne-Marie Twigg 
Anne-Marie runs a bereavement support group in her spare time, offering comfort and understanding to those going through loss. She is always ready to help and goes out of her way to support others. Her kindness has touched many lives. She is the heart of her community. 

Jacob Waldron 
Jacob, aged just 14, has shown extraordinary dedication by volunteering every week to help feed people experiencing homelessness. Every Sunday without fail - even in freezing temperatures - he prepares bacon and sausage rolls before heading out with Project 16:15 to support people experiencing homelessness in Northampton. He always puts others first, and even faced his fear of heights to abseil down the Northampton Lift Tower, raising £1,200 for the charity. Jacob’s kindness, courage and work ethic make him truly inspiring. Jacob is a powerful reminder that making a difference has no age limit. 

Diane Ward 
Diane has volunteered at Restore Food Bank for over 13 years, supporting both operations and those who walk through the door. Each week, she is the friendly face that greets each guest and checks the referral number the client has been given, ensuring each individual gets a warm welcome and signposting on to other organisations as needed. She ensures everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Her dedication keeps services running smoothly. She also volunteers at Royal & Derngate once a week. 

Sian-Elise Warr 
Sian volunteers weekly at her community café, where she helps create a positive and inclusive environment for all visitors. She had become affectionately known as our own “Queen of Puddings”, a title she wears with pride as she supports the smooth running of the cafe and brings joy to our elderly and isolated visitors. She also supports youth engagement activities, helping young people build confidence and feel part of their community. Her creativity and encouragement make a real difference. Sian also volunteers as a mentor for Bridge, offering guidance and support to others who need a positive role model. She has also given her time to the local food larder. 

Louise Wiltshire 
Louise has shown exceptional dedication to her community in Rushden, going far beyond her role at Serve by giving her time voluntarily at evenings and weekends. She supports events across the county—setting up stalls in all weather, caring for elderly and disabled attendees, and even transporting people to and from hospital in her own time. Always reliable and positive, she steps in at short notice and takes on extra responsibilities without hesitation.

Charlotte Yarker 
Charlotte has played a key role in growing Northampton Road Runners while promoting inclusivity and wellbeing. Throughout her tenure, she has been a passionate advocate for inclusivity in running, actively encouraging more women to participate in the sport while fostering an environment where runners of all abilities feel welcomed, supported, and confident. She encourages people of all abilities to take part and supports community fundraising. She has organised and promoted fundraising runs and donation campaigns that support important local causes, including Northampton Foodbanks and the Hope Centre, helping the club make a meaningful impact within the wider community.