Community Champion of the Year

2026

Community Champion of the Year Nominees

Bob Elcock Nominated by: Paul de la Cour

An Islander has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award in recognition of decades of service to the community through music, charity work and support for veterans.

Robert Elcock – better known as Bob – has served as drum major of the Band of the Island of Jersey for around 15 years, according to his nominator Paul de la Cour.

As well as leading the band, Mr Elcock regularly volunteers with Durrell and supports Help for Heroes and other veterans’ events. Most recently, his work saw him meet King Charles during the monarch’s visit to Jersey. After serving in the military, Mr Elcock worked as a prison officer before joining Hettich. He has since retired but continues to dedicate his time to community causes.

During the pandemic, when restrictions meant Jersey’s 75th Liberation Day celebrations could not go ahead as planned, Mr Elcock donned his uniform and marched through his own street to help mark the occasion. Mr de la Cour said: “Bob has consistently helped others and is a great example of someone who Jersey should be proud of and recognise for his service.”

Lynda Febers Nominated by: Nikki Clancy

The founder of a local home-care service has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award for creating a “compassionate” environment for both clients and staff.

Lynda Febers has been nominated by Nikki Clancy for showing “unwavering support” in her role as the founder of Aurum Home Care.Ms Clancy explained that Ms Febers has a “unique ability” to recognise talent in people, giving them the confidence they need to “develop their skills”.

Her nominator described Ms Febers as an “inspiring leader” who always makes herself available, constantly checks in, and has built a team which reflects her own “caring and professional” values. The Aurum Home Care founder has recently opened a specialist home care section, which Ms Clancy said was “thriving”.

“She really has her clients at the heart of everything she does,” she added. “She works on the floor with the clients and knows them personally. She upskills and coaches her team, and it really shows in the care that they give. “I believe she needs recognition for her hard work.”

Helena Parris Nominated by: Over-55s community exercise program group

A Fitness instructor who “makes a difference simply by being herself” has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Helena Parris runs an over-55s community exercise program at the Communicare Centre in St Brelade, focusing on mobility, rehabilitation, and falls prevention. Class members said that Helena looks after them both physically and mentally by “celebrating their joys, and offering advice in difficult days”.

The group described Helena’s help as “immeasurable, invaluable and commendable”, with her “warmth and generosity reminding everyone that they matter”. Helena runs six fitness classes each week across the Island, with her eldest member being 96 years old.

She is specifically a physiotherapist focusing on rehabilitation for elderly Islanders in their homes.

Keith Skelhorn Nominated by: Grands Vaux School teachers

Keith Skelhorn (83) has been nominated for Community Champion for “years of tireless volunteering across St Helier” and being the “embodiment of what it means to give back”.

He was nominated by teachers at Grands Vaux School, who said Mr Skelhorn is a stalwart of the Parish of St Helier Social Team – cooking breakfasts for parishioners on Liberation Day and helping in the kitchen at senior citizens’ Christmas lunches. He also was a helping hand for the parish at the recent general elections.

Additionally, Mr Skelhorn is a liaison officer for the Band of the Island of Jersey, helping them set up stages and seating, Mr Skelhorn is also involved in the Battle of Flowers, with his nominators stating that he can be spotted each year, high-vis jacket on and pulling the water trolley alongside the band.

The teaching group added: “Keith has become part of the fabric of Grands Vaux School, helping the caretaker with anything and everything. “The children adore him, staff call him invaluable and everyone who meets him feels luckier for it.”

Brighter Futures Nominated by: Anonymous

A charity which has been supporting children, young people and families across Jersey for more than 15 years has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

The anonymous nominator said Brighter Futures had been transforming lives since 2008 by providing free early intervention support that “strengthens families before problems escalate into crisis”.

Each week, around 160 families and more than 270 children access the charity’s services.

The nominator said the charity empowered families to develop the confidence and skills to build brighter futures for themselves, while its work also helped reduce pressure on health, education and social care services.

Despite increasing demand and funding challenges, the nominator said the charity continued to innovate, build partnerships and ensure that “no family feels they have to face life’s challenges alone”.

They added that Brighter Futures was “more than a charity, it is a cornerstone of Jersey’s community”, supporting families today while helping “creating stronger communities for tomorrow”.

JEDS Jersey eating disorder support Nominated by: Anna Binet

A charity which provides vital support to Islanders affected by eating disorders has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Anna Binet said Jersey Eating Disorders Support had been “a lifeline” for her and many others, helping people through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

She said the charity offered far more than support with eating disorders and food-related challenges, providing a safe and welcoming community where people are treated with kindness, compassion and respect.

Ms Binet praised JEDS for bringing together people with lived experience, those on their recovery journey, counsellors, peer supporters and volunteers. She added that the charity’s group meetings were invaluable and provided a confidential environment which was free from judgment.

Ms Binet said JEDS continued to change lives despite limited resources and deserved greater recognition for the difference it made every day. “JEDS will always hold a special place in my heart,” she said. “They have supported me in more ways than I can put into words.”

Helen Treby Nominated by: Tove Grant

A Childminder who has dedicated “countless hours to improving the lives of children and families across Jersey” has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Helen Treby is the vice-chair and designated safeguarding lead for the Jersey Association of Child Carers. She also serves as the designated safeguarding lead and a board member for Happy Heroes, a Jersey-based charity that supports children children with disabilities and additional needs.

Her nominator Tove Gant described Mrs Treby as an “incredible” asset to the Island’s childcare community, sharing her specialist knowledge in safeguarding, Makaton, outdoor learning, and supporting children with complex needs.

Mrs Treby also volunteers with Baby Watoto, an orphanage which cares for abandoned babies and toddlers in Uganda, showing that her “kindness extends far beyond our Island”.

“She personally organises community collections, fundraising, and donations of essential supplies, transporting them to Uganda herself,” added Mrs Gant. “Mrs Treby goes above and beyond “with humility, kindness, and no expectation of recognition.”

Victoria Morgan Nominated by: Edward Le Couteur

A scout leader who goes above and beyond to support young people and create a positive environment for them has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Nominator Edward Le Couteur said Victoria Morgan regularly “bends over backwards” in her role as a leader with the 10th Jersey (St Brelade) Scout Group, “often putting other people’s needs before herself”.

Mr Le Couteur said Ms Morgan worked hard to put together an enjoyable and educational programme for the Scouts, while also working as a learning assistant at Mont à l’Abbé School. Having known Ms Morgan for four years and volunteered alongside her, Mr Le Couteur said he had developed a great respect for her dedication and the demands she managed in both roles.

He said: “I think Vicky embodied all the values of scouting and deserves to be nominated.” Mr Le Couteur said Ms Morgan’s commitment, care and willingness to give her time to the next generation made her a deserving nominee for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Centre Point Nominated by: Magdalena Ford

Registered charity and childcare provider Centrepoint has been nominated for the community champion award for being there for families “without judgment, but instead with kindness, compassion and practical help”.

The organisation’s nominator, Magdalena Ford, praised the charity’s ongoing childcare support, which has made it possible for her to continue working in a role which helps young people through crisis, supports parents and strengthens families in the community.

“By supporting one family, Centrepoint has enabled countless other families and vulnerable young people to receive help, guidance and hope,” she said.

“Their impact reaches far beyond the people they work with directly.”

The nominator acknowledged all the staff and volunteers at Centrepoint and described them as “quiet heroes” who do wonderful things for the community but never seek recognition.

Ms Ford said the Centrepoint team is the true definition of what it means to be a community champion as “they remind us that when we lift one another up, the whole community becomes stronger”.

Enable Jersey Nominated by: Julie Fennessy

A charity which has helped an Islander regain independence and stay connected with the community has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Julie Fennessy said Enable Jersey had made a “life-changing” difference to her after her health deteriorated and she began needing support with many aspects of daily life. Ms Fennessy said her mobility had become increasingly limited, with some days bringing uncertainty over whether she would be able to move around her flat or get out into the community.

She said Enable had recently funded a collapsible mobility scooter, allowing her to regain a level of independence she had not experienced for years. “For the first time in years I went with my carer to walk my dogs,” Ms Fennessy said. “No longer needing to be pushed in a wheelchair, I now have the ability to visit more places.”

She added that being able to use the scooter also meant she could talk to her carer while they walked alongside each other, rather than having to shout backwards from a wheelchair.

Describing the moment as “very emotional and life-changing”, Ms Fennessy said it would not have been possible without Enable’s support, help and funding.

Charlotte Riley Nominated by: Laura Du Feu

A mother who set up the Christmas Kindness Appeal has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award for bringing to life “a community initiative that has helped as many children as possible to wake up on Christmas morning with gifts to open and memories to treasure”.

Charlotte Riley’s nominator, Laura Du Feu, said: “Charlotte brings warmth, positivity, a laugh and the heart and soul that make people feel valued and supported”. Miss Du Feu praised Mrs Riley’s network of generosity that continues to grow each year.

After supporting 174 local families in the first year in 2024, last year Mrs Riley helped support 224 Island children. What began in Mrs Riley’s lounge as a heartfelt idea has grown into a team of volunteers, spreadsheets, storage space, lorries, vans and drivers to collect, sort, match and distribute everything, said her nominator.

“Her dedication has made a lasting difference to so many families across Jersey, and her impact will continue for years to come,” Miss Du Feu said. “She simply wants every child to experience the magic of Christmas, regardless of their family’s circumstances.”

Steven Andrews Nominated by: Fenella Le Signe

A metal detectorist who set up Jersey Lost Ring Metal Detecting group on Facebook has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Steven Andrews has been praised for spending his free time “finding lost and often very sentimental rings, bringing so much joy back to so many Islanders”, said his nominator, Fenella Le Signe.

Rings can fall off in the sea while people are swimming or taking part in other beach activities, so Mr Andrews spends time scouring beaches in order to return valued jewellery, she explained.

Mrs Le Signe praised Mr Andrews for being a very “humble and unassuming man” who is often overlooked for his dedication between his shifts as a firefighter for the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service to “help retrieve these special items”.

She added that Mr Andrews “truly embodies” a Jersey community champion, as he had returned more than 145 sentimental items after spending time searching Island beaches.

Matt Carr Nominated by: Amy Allan and Nikki Clancy

A care worker at Aurum has been nominated for Community Champion for “supporting people with mental health, autism and learning disabilities in the community”.

Specialist support manager Matt Carr has been nominated by Amy Allan and Nikki Clancy, who said that Mr Carr “takes the weight off of everyone’s shoulders and gives and gives and gives”.

Mr Carr leads a team of eight staff members for Au-rum Home Care, where they support Islanders with additional needs who require compassionate, skilled and personalised care.

Mr Carr works directly with clients and their families to ensure that their voices are being heard at every hurdle.

His nominators described him as someone who is “constantly helping others and being supportive and encouraging” striving to make everyone’s life just that little bit easier by “always finding a solution to everyone’s problems”.

Ceri Sullivan Nominated by: Michael O’Neill

A senior healthcare assistant has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year for “creating a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected”.

Ceri Sullivan was praised by her nominator, Michael O’Neill, for going above and beyond as a healthcare professional by giving her time to support service users through difficult times, reassure worried families and help colleagues.

“Her positivity is infectious, and she inspires those around her to show the same kindness, respect and commitment,” said Mr O’Neill.

He also highlighted Miss Sullivan’s ability to make people feel seen, heard and appreciated, and called the impact she had on the lives of others immeasurable.

“She is passionate about improving the lives of others and works tirelessly to promote dignity, independence and wellbeing,” he added.

Zoe Le Var Nominated by: Daniel Houzé

A woman who started as a volunteer with the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust before being offered her “dream role” as events manager in 2018 has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year by her partner, Daniel Houzé.

Ms Le Var organised the first Rainforest Ball at the Royal Jersey Showground which raised more than £240,000 for Durrell and the Sumatran Orangutan Conservation Programme. She went on to become a “driving force”, raising “millions of pounds” for the organisation, Mr Houzé said.

He added: “She played a key role in major initiatives including the Wild in the Art trails and Go Wild Gorillas, and led the hugely successful Tortoise Takeover.“She was also instrumental in delivering flagship events such as the Durrell Dash, Durrell Challenge, London Lecture Series, golf days, corporate events, multiple Royal visits by Princess Anne and three further fundraising balls.”

Now, after nearly ten years working for Durrell, Ms Le Var is embarking on a new chapter with NSPCC Jersey, where she will help support vulnerable children and families.

Alex Clifford Nominated by: Melissa Crowther

A drone photographer and weather enthusiast has been nominated for dedicating his time to providing Islanders with detailed forecasts, weather updates and practical advice through social media.

Alex Clifford, who has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award, has “quietly” become one of Jersey’s most trusted sources of weather advice while asking for nothing in return, according to his nominator, Melissa Crowther.

What began as a passion has grown into a valuable community service, she said. This was particularly evident during Storm Ciarán, when Mr Clifford used his platform to help keep Islanders safe and informed amid challenging conditions. His nominator explained that he also regularly helped people navigate cancellations and rearrange their travel plans when severe weather disrupted their journeys.

Ms Crowther said: “Jersey is a community made stronger by people who give their time simply to help others, and Alex embodies exactly this by creating a trusted, accessible source of information that Islanders can turn to.”

Children's Day Team Nominated by: Cheyenne O’Connor

The organisers behind the Jersey Children’s Day have been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award for “capturing the very best of Jersey in one event, while creating joy, opportunity and lasting memories for thousands of Islanders every single year”.

Nominator Cheyenne O’Connor praised the Children’s Day Team for the months of planning, endless meetings, co-ordination and genuine care that go into making every child and family feel welcome.

The team organise a day of music, games and free activities which draws “thousands of smiling faces and laughter” while celebrating childhood, Ms O’Connor said. She added that the team “champions” children’s rights while honouring the commitment made following the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry that the voices and experiences of children should never be forgotten.

“The Children’s Day Team leads with kindness, passion and quiet determination, bringing together volunteers, charities, businesses and community groups to create something truly special for our island,” Ms O’Connor said. “They deserve to be celebrated for the joy, opportunity and lasting memories they create for thousands of Islanders every single year.”

Martyn Maguire Nominated by: Nigel Thomas Simpson

The chair of the Battle of Flowers Association has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year Award for his significant contribution over the past two years to reviving the Battle of Flowers.

Nigel Thomas Simpson praised Martyn Maguire for “dedicating his personal time, energy and drive on a purely voluntary basis to rescuing, reviving and delivering a spectacular Battle for the total benefit of all Jersey residents and visitors”.

Mr Maguire played a pivotal role in returning the Battle of Flowers to its ancestral home on Victoria Avenue and making it cost-free for audiences once again. As the figurehead of the Battle this year, he led a wider team to deliver a successful and spectacular Grand Day Parade and Moonlight Parade, “resurrecting the Battle from its financial hardships in the past”, Mr Simpson said.

He added that Mr Maguire’s leadership and work displayed “brilliance” in bringing an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people back to the Avenue to support the Battle.

Polly Axford Nominated by: Fiona Scott

A woman who has “quietly transformed the lives of countless children and families over many years” has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year.

Polly Axford has been nominated by her friend of more than two decades Alex Hopkirk, who said that no matter what Mrs Axford is going through she “always puts others first”. Mrs Axford has dedicated her career to caring for children with complex medical conditions, her nominator explained.

Ms Hopkirk said: “She consistently goes above and beyond her role, showing exceptional compassion not to only the children in her care but their entire families, providing reassurance, kindness and support during some of the most difficult times in their lives.

“Alongside her team, Polly has worked tirelessly through every challenge, include the Covid-19 pandemic, heatwaves and other demanding circumstances. “Her selfless service, unwavering compassion and exceptional commitment make her a truly deserving recipient of this recognition.”

Jamie Cauvain Nominated by: Fiona Scott

Jamie Cauvain has been nominated for his work in setting up an online petition calling on the Government of Jersey to reconsider its decision to reduce funding for the Jersey Employment Trust.

His nominator, Fiona Scott, put him forward for the Community Champion of the Year Award as she praised “the impact of Jamie’s action in eliciting a huge groundswell of public support for JET”.

His petition gained rapid support and reached 5,000 signatures in less than one week. As a result of the pressure, the government confirmed funding for JET for the rest of the year, while discussions continue on a longer-term funding arrangement.

Ms Scott said: “It is sometimes not easy for people who have disabilities to find their voice, but he absolutely nailed it.“He showed others to not be scared to fight for what you believe.” Mr Cauvain is a client at Acorn Training and Development, which comes under the auspices of JET, and “has truly made a difference” for others under the same training service, Ms Scott said.

St Clement’s School Nominated by: Jalie Collingwood

A primary school has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award for “shaping the lives of countless children and strengthening our community every day”.

Nominator Jalie Collingwood praised St Clement’s School for ensuring that every child felt valued, respected and empowered to achieve their full potential. She said its “inclusive and nurturing” approach had transformed the experience of her neurodivergent daughter, while also providing support to her as a parent.

“The understanding, patience and encouragement shown by the staff have had a lasting impact on my daughter’s confidence, happiness and love of learning,” Miss Collingwood said. She also commended staff for supporting families through good times and difficult periods, while always displaying kindness and professionalism.

“They build confidence, inspire resilience, foster friendships and create a genuine sense of belonging that extends beyond the school gates,” she added.

Aaron Flaherty Nominated by: Jo Harris

The company director at AF Plumbing & Heating has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year in recognition of his “incredible kindness, generosity and compassion” towards a family during a time of great difficulty.

Aaron Flaherty has been nominated by Jo Harris for installing a new walk-in shower, making it accessible and suitable for Ms Harris’s mother, with his “extraordinary kindness” being demonstrated by him carrying out the entire job without charging for labour.

Ms Harris praised Mr Flaherty for “giving his time, skills and hard work to our family without asking for anything in return” at a time when Ms Harris’s mother was living with a terminal brain tumour and her mobility was becoming increasingly difficult.

Ms Harris said: “Aaron didn’t just install a shower, he made a very difficult situation a little easier for my mum and for all of us caring for her. His kindness showed us the very best of people, and it is something our family will never forget.” Ms Harris’s mother died in February, yet the “difference Aaron made during her illness will always stay with us,” she added.

Wetwheels Jersey Nominated by: Magdalena Ford

Wetwheels Jersey has been nominated by Magdalena Ford for the Community Champion of the Year award for helping “create moments that families treasure for ever”. Since 2013, Wetwheels Jersey has been helping disabled and disadvantaged Islanders of all ages to experience power boating and being out on the water.

Ms Ford praised the team for “seeing ability instead of disability, possibility instead of limitation and welcoming every person with kindness, patience and genuine compassion”. “Wetwheels Jersey is much more than a boat. It is hope, inclusion, friendship and dignity in action,” she said, adding that the charity ensured that everyone, regardless of physical or additional needs, could experience the exhilaration of the open sea, the wind on their face and the simple but powerful feeling of belonging.

Ms Ford said: “For many carers and parents, these trips provide something equally precious, a chance to see their loved one simply enjoying life without barriers. “Those moments of happiness and respite cannot be measured.”

Darcy Twohig-Jones Nominated by: Romayni Featherstone

The founder of Her Code, an all-women social group that has made a “huge difference to women across Jersey”, has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year. Darcy Twohig-Jones has been praised by Romayni Featherstone for giving women of all ages a safe and welcoming space to meet new people, make friends and try new things.

From her Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp community, she has brought women together who may otherwise have felt lonely or isolated, offering a wide range of activities including book clubs, walks and crochet sessions.

“What makes Darcy stand out is that she saw a need within the community and took it upon herself to do something about it. She has created much more than a group; she has created a supportive community where women can feel safe, welcomed and comfortable being themselves,” said Ms Featherstone

Mrs Twohig-Jones’s “effort and kindness” to create something positive, in the form of Her Code, has introduced a valuable space for the women of Jersey, in which “many Islanders are beyond appreciative for her initiative and dedication”, Ms Featherstone continued.

Collette Willmett Nominated by: Bernadette Cooper

A St Clement resident has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year for her “long commitment” to the parish, particularly through her work with numerous voluntary groups.

Collette Willmett has been praised by Bernadette Cooper for all her “hard work” as a committee member and volunteer of the parish’s Community Support Team, member of the Twinning Committee, and an avid fundraiser, coach and supporter for St Clement Sports Club.

Ms Cooper thanked Ms Willmett for “her energy and enthusiasm always remaining undimmed”, adding that, in spite of recent health issues, she still worked hard to motivate others to join in with many family and community events.

Ms Willmett is also a keen supporter of the work of the Jersey Cheshire Home, always being “welcoming and helpful” to anyone who is elderly, sick or disabled. “She is an inspiration to those who work with her and her sense of fun is evident, as she can be the life and soul of the party. Collette will always be there to lend a hand with anything,” Ms Cooper added.

Darren Thomas Nominated by: Alex Black

A yoga teacher has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year for “having built, over 15 years, a community centred on health, resilience and connection”.

Nominator Alex Black praised Darren Thomas for never cancelling sessions at his dedicated yoga school, Yoga Matters, and showing “professionalism and a sense of responsibility to those who rely on him”.

Yoga Matters is a hot-yoga studio, which focuses on bikram yoga. Mr Black said Mr Thomas had “created a space where people from all walks of life can come together, challenge themselves and improve both their physical wellbeing and mental health”.

Mr Thomas always reminds his attendees to “relax your mind, and open your heart,” which, his nominator said, was a powerful reminder for Islanders to slow down, be present, and approach life and others with kindness and compassion.

“Darren’s reliability and genuine care has improved the wellbeing of countless individuals and strengthened the fabric of our local community,” Mr Black explained.

Salvation Army Jersey Nominated by: Lisa O’Connor

An Island-based charity which dedicates itself to supporting Islanders and strengthening the local community has been nominated for the Community Champion of the Year award.

Nominator Lisa O’Connor said that the team at The Salvation Army Jersey had gone “above and beyond” during the three years she had known them, helping the charity go “from strength to strength”.

Ms O’Connor explained that the charity, located in Minden Place, is not just a second-hand shop, but also a café, community hub and food pantry, which she described as a success that has helped many individuals and families across the Island. It also runs a Tots programme, a weekly Sunday church service, and a local Salvation Army band.

Ms O’Connor said the charity goes to great lengths to support the community at Christmas, organising meals, takeaway Christmas dinners and hosting up to 130 people for a three-course meal on the day itself. Describing the charity as “truly a blessing to this Island and community”, she said the nomination was a way of recognising the charity’s dedication, hard work and kindness.

St Martin's Surgery Nominated by: Julie Dutton

St Martin’s Surgery has been nominated for Community Champion of the Year for “representing the very best of what community healthcare can and should be”.

Nominator Julie Dutton has praised the medical practice for being “a genuine village doctor experience built around time, trust and personal connection,” as doctors take time to know you, listen to you and understand the person and family behind the medical need.

She also commended the “kindness and exceptional service” from a reception team who make every patient feel welcome and valued. Ms Dutton expressed particular appreciation to Valter Fernandes, but added that this “exceptional level of care” is reflected across the entire practice, with every member of the team offering “professionalism and commitment to their patients”.

“What makes St Martin’s Surgery truly deserving of this award is that this spirit of care extends throughout the whole practice and into the community it serves,” she said. St Martin’s Surgery demonstrates that outstanding healthcare is not only about medicine. It is about trust, compassion, connection and being there for people when they need you, said Ms Dutton.