The Gainsborough Rotary Club proudly hosted its annual Young Citizen of the Year Awards on Wednesday 2nd April, in the elegant setting of Hemswell Court. The event brought together a vibrant mix of student nominees, honoured guests, including Town Mayor K Wooley and Mayoress Cady, Rotarians, local business leaders, councillors, and the proud families and friends of the exceptional young people being celebrated.
This year, seven remarkable nominations were received from students at both Queen Elizabeth’s High School (QEHS) and The Gainsborough Academy (TGA), spanning all year groups. Each nominee was recognised for their extraordinary efforts in making a positive impact in their communities, showcasing compassion, initiative, and leadership well beyond their years.
Among the inspiring award winners were:
- Jace and Jared Jordan (Y9 and Y8 TGA), two entrepreneurial siblings who launched a gardening business ‘Jordan’s Grass Cutting’ focused on helping elderly residents in their local area. No job is too big or small for these two, who have demonstrated an amazing dedication and work ethic.
- Scarlett Beattie (Y7 TGA), a dedicated member of their school council, making a real impact and giving students a stronger voice in decision-making.
- Thomas Bowles (Y7 QEHS), affectionately known as Dr T, a budding surgeon, registered young carer, avid fundraiser as a cadet, and passionate environmentalist who carries out weekly litter picks on the way to school.
- Milly Wraith (Y13 QEHS), who is committed to tackling child poverty, regularly giving back to the community through acts of kindness and advocacy.
- Sofia Baker (Y9 TGA), who showed incredible generosity and bravery in supporting young people experiencing hair loss by raising funds for The Princess Trust. This was achieved with a selfless donation of Sofia’s own hair.
- Connor Radcliffe-Paige (Y10 TGA), a dedicated Fire Cadet who has demonstrated exceptional leadership potential, recently earning a promotion to Officer in Command within the cadet programme – a true role model for their peers.
Gainsborough Rotary Club President Chris Allbones said: “These young people are shining examples of what it means to be a true citizen. Their commitment to others, creativity, and compassion make us incredibly proud, and we are delighted to honour them in this way.”
In a special moment during the evening, Rotary also announced the recipient of the Senior Citizen of the Year Award: Craig Williamson, owner of Williamson’s Farm, recognised for outstanding dedication and lasting contribution to the Gainsborough community. Craig’s tireless efforts across various local projects and initiatives have made a meaningful difference, and the Club was proud to acknowledge this invaluable work.
The Young Citizen of the Year Awards holds a special place in the club’s calendar, as this was one of the very first events ever hosted by Gainsborough Rotary Club in its founding year of 1961. Over six decades later, the club remains deeply committed to celebrating and supporting the outstanding individuals who shape and strengthen the local community.
The evening was filled with celebration, heartfelt stories, and a strong sense of community spirit. Gainsborough Rotary Club would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the event, as well as the schools, families, and organisations that continue to nurture and encourage young people to make a difference.
The organisers would particularly like to thank Ellen Lumgair, independent Usbourne Partner ‘Turn The Page and Read’, who sponsored this year’s event and donated books and goodies to each of the nominees.
For more information about the Gainsborough Rotary Club and how to get involved, please visit www.rotarygainsborough.co.uk or follow the club on social media @GainsboroughRotaryClub.