The Haywards Heath Community Awards is an annual event, where residents nominate individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in the town.
Haywards Heath Town Council are proud to announce the 2026 Award winners and highly commended for each category:
Volunteer of the Year – Winner: Millie Simpkins
Millie was recognised for her outstanding commitment to volunteering across multiple organisations, from hospital and community cafés to Brownies, Parkrun and local charities. Her dedication and determination, including completing a half marathon walk for Macmillan Cancer, make her a truly deserving winner.
Volunteer of the Year – Highly Commended: Pauline Mallinson & Colin McFarlin
Pauline and Colin were commended for their work promoting recycling and sustainability through community engagement, events and the Community Food Hub. Pauline also founded Share Haywards Heath, the town’s first Library of Things.
Outstanding Young Person – Winner: Lily Jade Friend
Lily was recognised for her compassionate and consistent volunteering across healthcare, early years education and community support, making a meaningful impact without seeking recognition.
Outstanding Young Person – Highly Commended: Kip Kew Moss
Kip was commended for his dedication to the environment, regularly collecting litter and helping to keep local green spaces clean and cared for.
Outstanding Adult – Winner: Audrey Cramp
Audrey was honoured for over 50 years of volunteering, teaching hundreds of children to horse ride and making activities accessible and inclusive for all.
Outstanding Adult – Highly Commended: Lorraine Maynard
Lorraine was recognised for her long-standing leadership in protecting Ashenground and Bolnore Woods, championing conservation, community engagement and environmental awareness.
Business Award (Community Involvement) – Winner: Bridee Whyte
Bridee Whyte was celebrated for creating a welcoming community space, offering support, events and initiatives that bring people together and enhance local life.
Business Award – Highly Commended: My Choice Children’s Homes
My Choice Children’s Homes was commended for its strong community focus, supporting young people, staff and local charities through events and fundraising initiatives.
Mayor’s Award – Winner: John Bines
John was awarded for his exceptional leadership and dedication as Chair of Good Neighbours Care, supporting vulnerable residents and strengthening community connections through volunteering.
Hosted by the Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, the awards ceremony brought together the winners, highly commended nominees, nominators and their guests for an afternoon of recognition and celebration.
The event concluded with refreshments and a buffet, offering attendees the opportunity to connect and reflect on the remarkable achievements of local people.
Cllr Duncan Pascoe shared his insight of the day: “The Community Awards are always a highlight of the year, and this ceremony was a wonderful reminder of the strength and generosity within our town.
"Every nominee has made a meaningful difference, and it was an honour to celebrate their contributions alongside friends, family and fellow residents.”
Nominations for the 2027 Community Awards will open next January.
For further information, please visit www.haywardsheath.gov.uk/community-awards
1. Contributed
Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, presenting Millie Simpkins with the Volunteer of the Year Award 2026 - Winner Photo: Submitted
2. Contributed
Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, presenting Lily Jade Friend with the Outstanding Young Person Award 2026 - Winner Photo: Submitted
3. Contributed
Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, presenting Audrey Cramp with the Outstanding Adult Award 2026 - Winner Photo: Submitted
4. Contributed
Town Mayor, Cllr Duncan Pascoe, presenting Bridee Whyte Independent Funeral Services with the Business Award (Community Involvement) 2026 - Winner Photo: Submitted