Local heroes honoured at BBC Awards

Eight remarkable individuals from across Lincolnshire have been honoured at the BBC Radio Lincolnshire Make a Difference Awards 2026, recognising their outstanding contribution to local communities. The winners were celebrated at a special awards ceremony held at The International Bomber Command Centre near Lincoln, where their inspiring stories of kindness, resilience and selfless dedication were recognised in front of family, friends and community supporters. 

Now in its fifth year, the Make a Difference Awards continues to grow, with BBC Local receiving thousands of nominations from across the country. The awards honour everyday people – and animals – who go above and beyond to make life better for others in their local communities.  

The Lincolnshire winners were selected by a panel of local judges, including Lincoln City Captain Tandayi Darikwa and Look North’s Peter Levy, from hundreds of nominations. The awards were presented by BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Frances Finn and Scott Dalton on Thursday 17^th September 2026, as part of a series of 40 ceremonies taking place across the UK.    

 2026 Award Categories and Winners:  

The Volunteer Award – Lorna Curtis from Coningsby. Lorna won the volunteer award for her work in the local community, especially the 39 years she has given to running the Coningsby Luncheon Club. 

The Young Hero Award – Thomas Bowles from Gainsborough.  Thomas received his award for raising money for charities including the Air Ambulance and MacMillan Cancer Support by helping to collect 820 empty plastic tubs.  He also litter picks in and around Gainsborough and outside his own school. 

The Great Neighbour Award – Jo Thompson from Sleaford.  Jo Thompson from Sleaford was handed the Great Neighbour Award for her work to help restore the dignity to those buried within the two cemeteries on the grounds of Rauceby Hospital, the former asylum. 

The Active Award – Anne Rust from Lincoln.  Anne won the Active Award for the 50 years she has given to running keep fit classes in Lincoln.  

The Animal Award – Rosie Tonks from Lincoln.  Rosie Tonks, a cockapoo in Lincoln, has been given the Animal Award.  She is a support dog at home to Lilly who has cerebral palsy but also helps other children and adults at Our Lady of Lincoln Catholic Primary School.

The Environmental Award – Peter Skelson from Lincoln.  Peter Skelson, from Lincoln, won the Environmental Award for his work since he became one of the founding members of the RSPB Lincoln Local Group in 1974.  He was the group leader for more than 40 years and devoted a lot of his own time to organising activities focused on enjoying wildlife and the environment in and around Lincoln.

The Fundraiser Award – Janice Dilks from Tetford.  Janice received the fundraiser award for raising more than £76,000 for the air ambulance through car boot sales and bingo sessions.

The Community Group Award Supported by Morning Live – Holbeach Hub.  Sam Collins the Manager of Holbeach Hub collected the Community Group Award.  They were recognised for their positive approach to inclusivity and providing a wide range of activities for all ages and abilities in an area with limited activities and limited public transport links.     

Adam Newstead, Executive Editor at BBC Radio Lincolnshire, said:  ”The Make a Difference Awards are one of the most inspiring moments in our year at BBC Radio Lincolnshire. Across our county, there are remarkable people quietly making a real difference every day, often without seeking recognition or reward. These awards shine a light on their dedication, kindness and determination, and celebrate the positive impact they have on the lives of others. We are incredibly proud to share their stories and honour the individuals, groups and volunteers who help make Lincolnshire such a strong, caring and connected community. Congratulations to all of our winners and finalists, and thank you for everything you do.”

Chris Burns, Head of Audio Commissiong said: “Every year, the BBC Local Make a Difference Awards reveal the incredible efforts of people who go above and beyond to support those around them. The calibre of nominations this year has been exceptional, and we’ve been deeply moved by the many stories of compassion, resilience and community spirit. We’re proud to recognise these extraordinary individuals and give them the appreciation they so richly deserve. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination and congratulations to all of our deserving winners.”