COMMUNITY champions were honoured for their dedication and service at the Maldon Town Community Awards.
The awards were held on Monday, March 30, with 10 awards given to individuals and groups who have made a difference in education, sport, business, volunteering, and culture.
The awards were sponsored by Maldon Salt Ltd and organised and hosted by Maldon Town Council.
Councillor John Driver, mayor of Maldon, said: "Maldon Town Council warmly congratulates all those connected with the 2026 Community Awards – from the thoughtful nominators, to the deserving nominees, and the inspiring winners.
"We deeply appreciate their unwavering commitment to our community.
"The Community Awards provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and recognise the significant contributions they all make.
"We also extend our special thanks to our sponsor, Maldon Salt Ltd, a leading local business, for partnering with the Town Council to support this year’s awards."
John and Diana Rogers were named Citizens of the Year.
Diana has volunteered with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) for decades, raising funds, organising events, and supporting the Little Ship Club.
She continued her work even after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
John, a former biology teacher, has been active in RNLI, community heritage projects and sailing events, and has entertained and mentored people across the community.
Together, they have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity.
Howard Monks, founder of record shop Novel Sounds, won the Art, Culture and Heritage Award for helping to revitalise Maldon High Street.
His shop and community events, including Record Store Day, have created a welcoming hub for music fans and put Maldon on the map for visitors.
Datum Attitude Brewery was recognised with the Best Business Contribution Award for supporting veterans, hosting pop-up events for traders, and running inclusive activities for families in the community.
The Educator of the Year Award went to Plume College support staff, who were praised for helping more than 1,000 students succeed academically and personally.
Jake Edge, who became a carer for his mother at 13, won Carer of the Year.
He balanced school and caring duties while living in Enfield during her 18-month rehabilitation.
For his commitment to sport, James Degiorgio received the Sporting Volunteer Award.
James has volunteered as a coach and referee at Maldon Rugby Club and in schools in the town.
He has raised funds to improve community facilities and has promoted inclusion through his work.
The Young Achiever of the Year Award went to 11-year-old footballer Lilian Gough, the only girl selected for her district team.
Tony Price received the Long Service Volunteer Award for more than two decades of work in scouting, including leading a scout group, securing funding, and upgrading facilities.
Read more
Maldon Prom Parkrun took home the Community Impact Award for providing an inclusive regular 5k event for ages four and up, encouraging exercise and community togetherness.
Dorreen Linton received the Town Mayor’s Award for Community Service for her long-standing efforts to preserve Maldon’s heritage and bring people together through cultural projects.
Each of the winners received a trophy, certificate and branded gifts from Maldon Salt.
Share