Organisers of the very first ‘Rudd Awards’ have revealed that over 300 nominations were received – as villagers and visitors put forward their favourite Ruddington individuals, businesses and community groups for consideration across the six main categories.
The inaugural awards, launched in July by Ruddington Village Community Partnership (RVCP), celebrate independent businesses and community groups that are helping Ruddington to thrive by building a community hub and prosperous high street.
Nominations were invited across six award categories, with each award sponsored by a different local business. These included ‘Heart of Ruddington’ backed by main sponsor Artex, ‘Young Star’ sponsored by Ideagen, ‘Sports, leisure and culture’ sponsored by Ruddington Grange Golf Club , Quotient Sciences supported ‘Village hospitality’ and My Care, Ruddington Retirement Village sponsored ‘Community Group’.
Mike Ader, Chair of RVCP says: “The response we’ve had to the very first Rudd Awards is fantastic. The RVCP is overwhelmed with how many people have got behind their Ruddington favourites recognising the range of individuals, groups and businesses who are contributing to our vibrant and prosperous village.”
Those nominating were asked to name their favourite ‘Ruddites’, as well as give a reason. One secret nominator shared: “Full disclosure, she’s my wife. However, that means I got to see the tireless effort she puts into the Ruddington community… She’s a great ambassador for the village. This award would give everyone else a chance to see it. PS – she has no idea I’m writing this.”
Another said: “Service with a smile and a ‘yes’ we can help you, if not then there’s an offer to order it. During lockdown they were always there, when you wanted to stay safe you knew where to go. We always go there first as it saves time, fuel, money and helps to protect a fantastic community business.”
Now that nominations have closed, the awards committee are sorting through the nominations and shortlisting five per category. They will be judged by an independent panel, including local broadcast journalist and BBC Radio Nottingham presenter Sarah Julian, local Parish Councillor Ken Piggott and Catherine Evans, Economic Growth Manager at Rushcliffe Borough Council who will choose highly commended, runner up and winner for each category.
Mike Ader adds: “The high street retailers have really embraced the awards by getting their customers to nominate, it certainly shows in the volume of nominations. For our first year I don’t think we could have asked for anymore. There are enough nominations for our judging panel to have a conversation about in their deliberations, and honestly it is going to be hard for them!”
The winners will be announced at the awards evening on Friday 18th November 2022 at St Peter’s Church, compered by BBC Radio Nottingham Drivetime presenter, Verity Cowley.
For more information about the Rudd Awards please visit: https://www.rvcp.org.uk/awards.
