Active Blackpool Community Awards

The 2026 Active Blackpool Community Awards took place on Friday 18 September at Blackpool’s iconic Winter Gardens, bringing together the people, groups and organisations that make such a positive difference across our town.

This award recognizes a young individual who has achieved remarkable success in sports or physical activities.

The recipient has demonstrated exceptional talent, determination, and sportsmanship, inspiring others and setting a high standard of excellence.

2026 Shortlist – Bethany Dobson, Billy Kershaw, Darcy Bennett, Esme Rutter, Theo Minns

Winner – Billy Kershaw

Billy is an exceptional young swimmer whose dedication, hard work and commitment make him a fantastic ambassador for his sport. Whether training in the pool or competing in open water events, Billy consistently demonstrates determination, resilience and maturity. He is highly respected within Blackpool Aquatics and is always willing to support and encourage younger swimmers.

This year, Billy was once again selected for the Triathlon England North West Academy and became both Lancashire County Champion and North West Regional Champion in the 5km Open Water Championships. Remarkably, this is the fifth consecutive year he has achieved both titles and qualified for the national championships.

Stepping up to the challenging 7.5km distance this season, Billy recorded his strongest national result to date, finishing fourth at the Swim England National Age Group Open Water Championships. Alongside his sporting success, he continues to excel academically, showing outstanding discipline and balance in everything he does.

This award recognizes a young individual under 16 who has volunteered their time and energy to support sports and physical activities.

The recipient has shown remarkable dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership, contributing significantly to the success and enjoyment of participants.

2026 Shortlist – Bethany Dobson, Grace Mackenzie, Isabel Speakman, Jessica Ormerod, Neveah Fenton

Winner – Grace Mackenzie

Grace’s dedication, kindness and commitment have made a significant impact at Blackpool Aquatics. As both an athlete and volunteer, she has become a valued role model for younger swimmers, offering encouragement, support and a friendly face at training sessions and competitions. Her positive attitude helps junior athletes build confidence, manage nerves and enjoy their swimming experience.

Originally volunteering as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award, Grace discovered a passion for helping others and has continued to volunteer well beyond the programme. Despite injury challenges this year, she remained committed to supporting the club, demonstrating resilience and determination. Grace regularly volunteers at junior training sessions and competitions across the region, assisting with marshalling, timekeeping, results uploading and medal presentations. Her enthusiasm and commitment have made her an integral part of the club community, and she is now progressing towards her Judge 1 qualification.

This award honours an adult volunteer who has shown extraordinary commitment and passion in supporting sports and physical activities.

The recipient has dedicated their time and effort to enhance the experience for participants, demonstrating leadership and making a positive impact on the community.

2026 Shortlist – Jade Bostock, Joanne Quinnell, Pedal Power, Vicky Dobson

Winner – Jade Bostock

Jade’s dedication, enthusiasm and determination have made a lasting impact within the Rascals Enhancing Lives CIC community. At just 16 years old, she volunteers across judo, wrestling, sports camps, community events and social media, always giving her time to support others and encourage participation.

Having started as a shy young person with limited confidence, Jade has become an inspiring role model who encourages others to overcome their own barriers. Growing up alongside siblings with autism has given her a strong understanding of different support needs, helping her provide encouragement and support to those who need it most.

Despite balancing GCSE studies and managing ongoing migraines, Jade remains committed to volunteering, often attending the club six days a week. This year, she has won national and international judo gold medals, achieved her Level 1 Judo Coaching qualification and helped raise the club’s profile through successful social media content.

This award celebrates a family that has embraced the Active Families Programme and made positive changes to their health and wellbeing.

Through regular participation, learning together and making healthier choices, they have become more active, built confidence and developed lasting healthy habits.

2026 Shortlist – Cardwell Family, Hassell Family, Simpson Family

Over the past 12 months, each family has embraced the Active Families journey in their own way, whether joining the programme for the first time or continuing to build on their progress through follow-on events, activities and classes.

Throughout their involvement, these families have shown a genuine commitment to improving their health and wellbeing while encouraging and inspiring others around them. Their enthusiasm, positivity and willingness to share their experiences have helped create a supportive and welcoming environment for families taking part in the programme.

Earlier this year, all three families generously contributed their time and experiences through a series of focus groups to help shape the future of the new holistic Active Families programme. Their honest feedback and valuable insights have directly influenced its development, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of local families.

Through weekly sessions, practical lifestyle changes and shared experiences, each family has grown in confidence, developed healthier habits and strengthened family wellbeing. Their dedication, progress and positive attitude make them truly deserving of this award.

This award celebrates a primary school that has excelled in promoting health, wellbeing, and physical activities among its students.

The school has implemented innovative programs, encouraged participation, and fostered a positive culture around Physical activity.

2026 Shortlist – St. Johns C of E Primary, Stanley Primary, Westcliff Primary School

Winner – St John’s C of E Primary School

St John’s C of E Primary School places inclusion, opportunity and personal development at the heart of school life, ensuring every child can participate, belong and achieve. Through a varied programme of physical activity, including football, athletics, pickleball, boxercise, swimming and inclusive sport, pupils are encouraged to build confidence, resilience and a lifelong enjoyment of being active.

The school has demonstrated a strong commitment to removing barriers to participation as one of only 14 schools in England selected to pilot the Youth Sport Trust’s Comets Inclusive Football Club. Beyond sport, pupils have benefited from life-changing experiences through residential visits to the Lake District and London, helping to raise aspirations, build independence and broaden horizons.

Recognised with both the School Games Mark Gold Award and the Royal Life Saving Society Water Smart Silver Award, St John’s continues to make a lasting difference through its inclusive approach and the positive outcomes achieved by its pupils.

This award honours a secondary school that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to sport and physical activity.

The school has provided opportunities for students to be active and promoted a balanced approach to education and physical well-being.

2026 Shortlist – Highfurlong, Park Community Academy

Winner – Park Community Academy

Park Community Academy is a specialist school committed to helping every pupil lead an active, healthy and fulfilling life. Supporting children and young people aged 2 to 19 with a wide range of special educational needs and disabilities, the school places physical activity, wellbeing and inclusion at the heart of its approach.

Recognised nationally with the School Games Platinum Award and afPE Quality Mark with Distinction, the school provides exceptional opportunities for pupils to thrive through sport. This year, pupils achieved outstanding success, with the U16 boys crowned Lancashire Football Champions, the girls securing their highest-ever league finish and the swimming team earning a podium place at the National Panathlon Championships.

The school also supports inclusive sport initiatives, Special Olympics events and staff training. Through its commitment to inclusion, Park Community Academy empowers every pupil to achieve their potential and experience success through sport.

This award celebrates a health care professional who has shown exceptional commitment to promoting physical activity and health.

The recipient has implemented programs or initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles and improve the well-being of their patients or community.

2026 Shortlist – Beth Purvor

Winner – Beth Purvor

Beth, founder of Reclaim with Beth, has made a significant impact on older adults and their families across the Fylde Coast through her specialist home-based physiotherapy service. By delivering personalised rehabilitation at home, she helps people regain confidence, mobility and independence following illness, falls, hospital stays and long-term conditions, including Parkinson’s and dementia.

Her tailored programmes focus on improving strength, balance and movement, helping clients stay active and independent for longer. By bringing expert physiotherapy directly to those who need it most, Beth removes barriers to accessing support and provides reassurance during difficult times.

This year, Beth has helped many local residents regain everyday skills, reduce their risk of falls and avoid hospital admissions. Her compassionate approach is highly valued by people living with dementia, while her guidance supports families and carers. Through Reclaim with Beth, she continues to restore confidence, dignity and independence.

This award recognizes a team that has shown exceptional dedication to promoting health and well-being through sports and physical activities.

The team has implemented successful programs, demonstrated leadership, and made a significant impact on the community.

2026 Shortlist – Blackpool Central West PCN Wellbeing Team, Blackpool Council Employee Wellbeing Team, Jobs Friend Houses – Abstinent Supported Housing Community

Winner – Blackpool Central West PCN Wellbeing Team

Blackpool Central West PCN Wellbeing Team has made a significant difference to local residents through its person-centred approach to health and wellbeing. Made up of Social Prescribers and Health and Wellbeing Coaches, the team takes support beyond traditional healthcare settings, meeting people in community spaces where they feel comfortable and confident to engage.

By providing practical, personalised support, the team helps people overcome barriers such as low confidence, social isolation and inactivity. Their work connects individuals with local opportunities that improve wellbeing, strengthen social connections and encourage healthier lifestyles.

A standout achievement has been the creation of Social Sip at Stanley Park, bringing people together through coffee, conversation and gentle walks. The team has also championed Swim Together, promoted walk-and-talk appointments and expanded walking opportunities through trained walk leaders, helping people lead healthier and more connected lives.

This award honours a medical practice that has demonstrated outstanding efforts in promoting physical activity and health among its patients.

The practice has implemented innovative programs, encouraged participation, and fostered a culture of wellness and fitness.

2026 Shortlist – Adelaide Street Family Practice

Winner – Adelaide Street Surgery

Adelaide Street Surgery is making physical activity a key part of the support it provides to patients, helping people improve their health, wellbeing and quality of life. As part of its journey towards achieving the Active Practice Charter, the surgery has taken positive steps to encourage movement, reduce sedentary behaviour and connect patients with opportunities in the local community.

The practice has strengthened partnerships with local health and wellbeing services, giving staff greater awareness of activity programmes available to patients and helping them have more meaningful conversations about becoming active. Patients can also access initiatives such as Social Sip, which combines social connection with gentle physical activity in a welcoming and supportive environment.

This year, Adelaide Street Surgery appointed a Physical Activity Clinical Champion, expanded partnerships that support wellbeing and explored new ways to promote movement within the practice. While still early in its Active Practice journey, the surgery is already making a positive difference by helping patients lead healthier, more active and connected lives.

This award honours a group or organization that has made significant efforts to activate and engage communities through sports and physical activities.

The recipient has implemented programs that promote inclusivity, health, and well-being, making a positive impact on the community.

2026 Shortlist – Blackpool Recovery Hub, Burlesque Chair Dance, Community Fitness Games, Forget Me Not – Dementia Cafe, The Run Club Collective, Together We Can Do

Winner – Forget Me Not Dementia Café

Forget Me Not Dementia Café has created a welcoming and inclusive space where people living with dementia, alongside their families and carers, can remain active, connected and engaged within their community. The café demonstrates that physical activity is about much more than exercise, helping people maintain mobility, confidence, independence and meaningful social connections.

A varied programme of activities ensures there is something for everyone. Participants can enjoy chair-based exercise, singing, music, dancing and movement sessions in a safe, supportive and enjoyable setting. The café’s sensory garden also provides opportunities for gentle outdoor activity, encouraging people to take part in gardening and practical tasks that promote wellbeing and a sense of purpose.

With more than 60 people attending each week, the café has become a valued community hub that helps reduce isolation, supports wellbeing and ensures everyone feels active, connected and valued.

Winner – The Run Club Collective

The Run Club Collective has quickly become a welcoming and inclusive community that brings people together through running, friendship and shared experiences. Founded by Luke and Hannah, the club welcomes people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, creating an environment where everyone feels supported, encouraged and part of something special.

Through weekly Sunday community runs followed by social gatherings, participants are given opportunities to improve their wellbeing, build confidence and form lasting friendships. The club has created a genuine sense of belonging, helping people stay active while strengthening connections across the local community.

In just eight months, The Run Club Collective has grown into a thriving movement. The team has also organised successful Run Club Raves, creating fun and unique opportunities for people to connect. By inspiring independent group activities, supporting local businesses and strengthening community spirit, the club is making a lasting positive impact across Blackpool.

This award recognizes a workplace that has excelled in promoting physical activity and health among its employees.

The organization has implemented innovative programs, encouraged participation, and fostered a culture of wellness.

2026 Shortlist – Blackpool Council Employee Wellbeing Team, Adelaide Street Family Practice

Winner – Blackpool Council Wellbeing Team

Blackpool Council’s Employee Wellbeing Team has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating a healthier and more active workplace through its innovative Race Across the World Challenge. Running throughout summer 2026, the initiative encouraged employees to increase their physical activity through walking, cycling, running and other everyday activities, making participation accessible to everyone regardless of fitness level or ability.

The seven-week challenge brought colleagues together from across the organisation, promoting teamwork, wellbeing and active lifestyles. Through organised walks, workplace challenges and wellbeing activities, employees were encouraged to move more, support one another and develop healthier habits.

Participants collectively logged an impressive 8,179 miles, virtually travelling from Blackpool to the Football World Cup Final venue in the USA and back again. By creating a fun, inclusive and engaging programme, the Employee Wellbeing Team has increased awareness of the benefits of physical activity while fostering a positive workplace culture where health, wellbeing and connection are valued.

This award recognizes an outstanding coach who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and success in guiding athletes or teams.

The recipient has made a significant impact on their sport through innovative coaching techniques, fostering a positive environment, and achieving remarkable results.

2026 Shortlist – Izabelle Edge, Jane Whittle, Molly Simpson, Thomas Alan Evans and Craig Campbell

Winner – Jane Whittle

Jane’s ability to bring out the best in swimmers is evident across all ages and abilities. She creates a supportive and motivating environment where athletes feel valued, develop confidence and achieve their potential both in and out of the pool. As a female coach, Jane has overcome stereotypes surrounding women in sport and coaching, demonstrating exceptional professionalism, leadership and dedication.

This year, swimmers under Jane’s guidance achieved outstanding success. Highlights included a British para record in the 1500m freestyle, two para gold medals at the Swim England Summer Championships and qualification places at British Championships, Next Gen Championships, National Championships and Open Water Nationals. Swimmers also earned numerous regional, county and talent pathway selections.

Beyond performance, Jane promotes water safety, physical activity, wellbeing and inclusion through her work with Blackpool Aquatics, which supports around 300 swimmers. Her collaborative approach ensures young athletes continue to thrive and develop.

This award celebrates a sports club that has shown excellence in management, community engagement, and performance.

The club has provided exceptional opportunities for members, promoted inclusivity, and contributed significantly to the development of the sport.

2026 Shortlist – Blackpool Aquatics Amateur Swimming Club, Blackpool BMX Club, Blackpool Scorpions ARLFC, Brian Rose Boxing Academy, Keidokwai Judo Club, Together We Can Do

Winner – Brian Rose Boxing Academy

Brian Rose Boxing Academy is much more than a boxing gym. It is a welcoming community hub that provides structure, support, positive role models and a safe environment for people of all ages and abilities. Led by Brian Rose alongside Dan Coyle, Will Townson and Carl Smith, the club has made a significant difference to young people, adults with disabilities, individuals facing mental health challenges and those struggling in mainstream education.

A major achievement this year was securing £10,000 from Elite Competitions to safeguard the Inclusive BoxFit programme. Before funding was secured, Brian personally continued delivering sessions for ten weeks to ensure participants did not lose a valuable source of support, routine and social connection.

The club has also enjoyed notable sporting success, producing champions, winning Box Cups and competing nationally despite being affiliated with England Boxing for only two years. Its lasting impact combines inclusion, opportunity and excellence.

This award celebrates an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to increasing participation in physical activity, reflecting the passion and dedication of Bob Hudson.

It recognises someone who inspires others, promotes inclusion, and create lasting positive impact within their community, helping more people lead active, healthier lives.

2026 Shortlist – David Ratcliffe, Helen Whittle, Howard Robinson, Luke Helmn

Winner – Helen Whittle

Helen has made an exceptional contribution to Blackpool Aquatics and the wider swimming community through more than 35 years of dedicated voluntary service. Having started as a swimmer at the age of 10, she has gone on to support the club in a wide variety of roles, including coach, lifeguard, official, team manager, mentor and training camp organiser.

Her commitment has helped develop athletes, support families and create opportunities for people of all ages to participate and succeed within the sport. Through her leadership and experience, Helen has played a vital role in helping the club continue to thrive and provide high-quality experiences for its members.

Despite facing significant health challenges and ongoing treatment this year, Helen has continued to volunteer tirelessly, always placing the needs of the club and its athletes first. Her resilience, selflessness and lifelong dedication have made a lasting and positive impact on countless lives.

Winner – Howard Robinson

Howard has made an outstanding contribution to inclusive sport and physical activity across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre. As co-founder of Together We Can Do, he has helped ensure disabled adults have opportunities to be active, socialise and feel connected within their community.

Drawing on his lived experience as a parent of a disabled adult, Howard has been a passionate advocate for inclusion and accessibility. Since helping establish the organisation in 2021, he has supported its growth from just eight members to nearly 200 disabled adults participating in football, netball, boccia and a wide range of inclusive activities.

Through his vision and leadership, Howard has helped create opportunities for members to build confidence, independence and lasting friendships. His determination and commitment have established a sustainable organisation that continues to break down barriers, tackle inequalities and provide life-changing opportunities for disabled adults and their families.

This award celebrates an athlete who has achieved outstanding performance at the highest level of their sport.

The recipient has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and success, representing their sport with distinction and inspiring others.

2026 Shortlist – Amelia Cowburn, Emilie Bennett, Jake Pasquill, Richard Gleeson

Winner – Amelia Cowburn

Amelia has demonstrated exceptional determination and resilience in pursuing her ambitions within para-swimming. Despite living with Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), a progressive neurological condition, she continues to excel at the highest level while inspiring those around her through her positive attitude and unwavering commitment.

This year, Amelia achieved outstanding success in the pool, breaking the British S8 1500m Freestyle record, winning multiple County and Regional medals, qualifying for the British Championships and securing two gold medals at the Swim England Summer Nationals. Her performances have also earned recognition from Aquatics GB and Swim England, with identification for World Para Swimming International Classification.

Beyond competition, Amelia is a passionate advocate for disability sport and a role model for aspiring athletes. Her determination, resilience and willingness to challenge perceptions continue to inspire fellow swimmers, coaches and families across the sporting community.