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Nominations now open for the Roch Valley Radio Community Hero Awards 2026 to honour local legends

Roch Valley Radio has officially opened this year's nominations for our Community Heroes Awards, celebrating the everyday people, groups and organisations going above and beyond to make Rochdale and Bury a better place to live.

The Community Hero Awards, which we started last year, are back for a second year, recognising individuals, teams, charities and businesses whose actions have had a positive and lasting impact in their communities.

From volunteers and youth champions to emergency service workers and local teachers, Roch Valley Radio is calling on listeners and readers to submit their nominations across 14 categories. The awards aim to spotlight those often working quietly in the background, whose dedication deserves a wider platform and public thanks.

Dean Sampson, Operations Director at Roch Valley Radio, said:

We know how much good is being done every day across Rochdale, Bury and beyond, but so much of it goes unnoticed, and as a not for profit organisation covering news, we see this daily. This is our chance to shine a spotlight on those who don’t seek recognition but absolutely deserve it.

The awards night last year was a raving success, and shows how much the local community in Bury and Rochdale need to be thanked for the work they put in day after day.

We want to hear about the people who’ve inspired you, supported you, or made life better in your neighbourhood. These are the people who embody community spirit and we’re proud to launch an awards ceremony dedicated entirely to them.

The categories include:

  • Outstanding Volunteer – for someone who selflessly gives up their time for others
  • Young Hero (Under 18s) – an inspiring young person making a difference
  • Lifetime Achievement – honouring years of service to the community
  • Neighbourhood Champion – improving life on their street or estate
  • Emergency Services Hero – someone in uniform who’s gone above and beyond
  • Healthcare Hero – for NHS or care workers making a real impact
  • Education Hero – a teacher or school staff member changing lives
  • Bravery Award – for courage in extraordinary circumstances
  • Kindness in the Community – for everyday acts of compassion
  • Charity Champion – supporting a cause that matters
  • Business in the Community – recognising local firms that give back
  • Environmental Hero – promoting sustainability and action on climate
  • Unsung Hero – the quiet contributor behind the scenes
  • Special Recognition Award – for nominees who don’t fit the other categories

Nominations can be submitted online by Clicking Here and will remain open until Friday 21 August 26 a live awards ceremony in September.

👉 Nominate Now

Nominees must be recognised for voluntary or impactful work within the community.

If you know someone who deserves a moment in the spotlight, head to https://www.rochvalleyradio.com/communityhero/ to nominate them now.

For further information or to request a paper form, email newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com 

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Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something happening in our Borough?

Let us know by emailing newsdesk@rochvalleyradio.com

All contact will be treated in confidence.

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