Roch Valley Radio has officially launched our first ever 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 brand new awards will recognise 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.
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 15 August 2025 a live awards ceremony on Friday 26 September 2025 at the Village Hotel, Bury.
👉 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
Man charged in relation to Heywood incident
Town centre crackdown uncovers illegal trading and unsafe properties in Rochdale
Oldham man says cancer charity support helped rebuild his life alongside NHS care
Local election candidate fuming over his name being spelt wrong
The town with a solution to their traffic problem
Local Elections 2026: What every party in Rochdale has to offer ahead of local elections
Family secures £16200 key worker support to move into new home in Bury
Four men charged after incident at Rochdale AFC match against York City
KYP Easter programme brings creative activities and healthy meals to Rochdale children
Middleton widow appeals for answers after husband dies from asbestos related cancer
Man in his 20s fighting for life after Royton crash as police urge witnesses to come forward
Fun five-days in Spain boosted the confidence of high school students ahead of their Spanish exams
Comments
Add a comment