AFTER what seems like a lifetime of virtual events it was wonderful to be able to gather at Ramside Hall Hotel on Thursday evening to celebrate an in-person awards ceremony – and even more special that it was to thank, reward and honour so many people and organisations from our region.

Everyone nominated for The Northern Echo's County Durham Together Awards, in association with Durham County Council, is special, so it is a privilege to be able to shine a spotlight on the inspirational, hard working, dedicated and selfless people who have truly gone more than the extra mile to help their friends, neighbours and often people they don’t even know.

The Northern Echo:

Peter Barron, who compered the event, said: “It was an honour to host this year’s County Durham Together Awards, which again produced so many inspirational stories about individuals and organisations uniting for the greater good of the county in these challenging times.

"Congratulations – and thank you – to all the finalists.” Every one of them is a local hero in our eyes."

In total there were a dozen winners ranging from caer of the year to large company of the year. 

One of the most emotional awards went to Tracey Beadle, who was named unsung hero of the year for her work as chairperson of Quinn’s Retreat, which she and husband David founded in memory of 17-year-old daughter Quinn and 21-yearold son Dyllon who both took their own life.

It offers respite accommodation in a caravan at Barnard Castle, and recently acquired a second which will be known as Dyllon’s Den, to help those affected by suicide.

Chris Lloyd, from The Northern Echo, said: "The awards celebrate all that is great about County Durham, particularly the spirit of its people in these troubling times.

"Everyone nominated is a winner, and it was a privilege to hear their stories.

"The sponsors, led by Durham County Council, deserve great thanks for enabling so many worthy people to be honoured for making a difference to their communities.

"In all my time attending award ceremonies, I have never seen a reaction like that which greeted Tracey Beadle, of Shildon, as she was took to the stage, enveloped in the warmth of a standing ovation, to pick up the Unsung Hero award.

"There were no dry eyes in the house as she explained that that very evening was the third anniversary of the death of her daughter, Quinn, and how she was turning that tragedy, and that of her son Dyllon who took his own life 10 months after Quinn took hers, into something so positive.

"The audience were amazed by her story and utterly astounded by her resilience and her determination to set up her charity so that, in the depths of her own despair, she could ensure others did not suffer in the same way.

"It was quite astonishing, but then so were all the other nominees and winners who went to such lengths in all walks of life to make County Durham the very special place that it is."

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, leader of Durham County Council, said: "If there is one positive thing to have come out of the great hardships we have faced in recent years – from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic to the challenges of Storm Arwen – it is the countless acts of kindness and generosity within our communities.

"In County Durham we have a track record of supporting one another when times get tough.

"In 2021, this has been demonstrated again and again. Community spirit has never been stronger and at Durham County Council we are doing everything in our power to support our residents and businesses through these difficult times.

"Last night the County Durham Together Awards provided an opportunity for us to say a big thank you to those who are going above and beyond to support those in need.

"After so long apart, it was a chance to celebrate their achievements together as we look forward to brighter times ahead. In this supplement you can read all about our amazing award winners – from the Chester-le-Street café tackling food waste and food poverty to the housing provider that redeployed its staff to offer support in the community during the pandemic; from the museum offering inspiring virtual activities to the mother offering support to those who have experienced similar tragedies to those of her own family.

"I am sure you will find their stories just as moving and inspiring as the judging panel did. If you are self-isolating or struggling with issues relating to Covid-19, our virtual support hub, County Durham Together, continues to offer support. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch on communtiyhub@durham.gov.uk or 03000 260260."

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

Volunteer of the Year - Shaun Potts

Carer of the Year - Penny Brown

Community/Voluntary Group of the Year - Durham Area Youth

Public Service Award - Little Treasures

Key Worker of the Year - Vicky Bourne

Unsung Hero - Tracey Beadle

Health & Wellbeing Award - Aspire Learning, Support and Wellbeing

Environment Award - RefUSE Cafe

Visitor Economy Award - Raby Estates

Small/Medium Sized Company of the Year - Prince Bishop Veterinary Hospital

Large Company of the Year - Karbon Homes

Special Recognition - Locomotion

 

  • Dont miss our special 16-page winner supplement exclusively in Saturday's The Northern Echo. The winners' stories will be featured online too over the coming days.