Issued on behalf of the Tendring Youth Awards

The incredible achievements and community spirit of Tendring’s young people were celebrated in style at the 2025 Tendring Youth Awards, held at Clacton’s Princes Theatre on Tuesday night (1 July).

Now in its ninth year, the event continues to spotlight the district’s most inspiring young individuals – as well as the unsung adult heroes who support them – across a wide range of categories. From personal triumphs to community contributions, the awards showcase the very best of Tendring’s youth.

Karen O’Connor, Chairwoman of the Tendring Youth Awards, praised this year’s nominees and winners for their dedication and impact.

“Each year, we’re amazed by the incredible young people and supportive adults who make a difference across Tendring – and this year was no exception,” she said.

“Our finalists are truly inspiring, and every nominee deserves recognition for their outstanding contributions.

“A huge thank you to our sponsors – especially our headline sponsor Harwich Haven Authority – and a warm welcome to our new supporters. We’re also grateful to our fantastic committee and volunteers who make this event possible.

“Most of all, thank you to the young people we have being celebrating.

“They are role models for our community, and we’re so proud of everything they’ve achieved.”

The awards were proudly headlined by Harwich Haven Authority (HHA), with support from Tendring District Council (TDC) and Essex County Council. Other generous sponsors included Aquinas Provisions, Princes Theatre, Halterman Carless, Pickering Relay, Searles Financial Planning, and Nantmor Blinds.

Sarah West, Chief Executive of HHA, shared her admiration for the young awardees.

“Congratulations to all of the winners and to the organising team of volunteers who put on a fantastic evening,” she said.

“Creating positive impact in our local community is one of our values at Harwich Haven Authority and so we are very proud to be able to support the awards.

“The achievements of these young people should be celebrated; their outstanding community spirit sets a fine example for others to follow.”

The evening was brought to life with vibrant performances from Stagestruck Academy, students from Clacton County High School, and a delightful choir from Engaines Primary School in Little Clacton.

Dignitaries in attendance included the Deputy Lieutenant of Essex Nigel Spencer MBE, High Sheriff of Essex Julie Fosh, and Gina Placey, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Partnerships, alongside sponsors, nominators, and proud guests.

Will Lodge, Tendring Youth Awards Vice-Chairman, was presented with a surprise High Sheriff’s Award on the night in recognition of his hard work and dedication in helping to run the awards – and for his work leading a local scout group.

To stay updated on the Tendring Youth Awards or to find out how your organisation can get involved as a sponsor, visit https://www.tendringdc.gov.uk/tendring-youth-awards or follow the awards on Facebook and Instagram.

The Winners

Arts – Sponsored by the Princes Theatre. Winner: Yeabu Gbla. Runners-up: Sam Smith & Sophie-Megan Edwards, Vee Matthews

Community Improvement – Sponsored by Harwich Haven Authority. Winner: Happy Helpers. Runners-up: The Key - Lift Clacton, Jorden Walker

The Environmental Initiative Award – Sponsored by Halterman Carless. Winner: Cann Hall School council. Runners-up: Uturn Ambassadors

Improved Attendance Award (Primary school) – Sponsored by Aquinas. Winner: Isaac Knowles. Runners-up: Maximus Williams, Tommy Lee

Improved Attendance Award (Secondary school) – Sponsored by Aquinas. Winner: Tommy Batchelor. Runners-up: Louie Brooker, Lucy Camp

Outstanding Achievement - Sponsored by Searles Financial Planning Ltd. Winner: Reuben Keeys. Runners-up: Princess White, TTC Rocket Club

Learning Achievement - Sponsored by Tendring District Council. Winner: Georgina Larden. Runners-up: Gabriela Cottrell, Leon Chadwick

Personal Growth – Sponsored by Nantmor Blinds. Winner: Sonny Lee Cook. Runners-up: Luke Stewart, Leah-May Smith

Unsung Hero (Adult) – Sponsored by Harwich Haven Authority. Winner: Sonia Shaljean. Runner-up: Samantha Harwood, Kirbee Martin

For the Good of All Award - Sponsored by Pickering Relay. Winners: Ellexie Bigwood. Runner-up: Birch Hall Leaders, Olivia Evans

Young Carer  – Sponsored by Essex County Council. Winner: Tegan Hudson. Runners-up: Alfie Smith, Frankie Corbersmith

Young Lifesaver - Winner: Amelia Fenlon.

Committee’s Award - Winners: Samantha Harwood, and The Key – Lift Clacton

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