The achievements of local Rugby businesses, charities and volunteers were celebrated once again at the annual Pride of Rugby Awards on Friday 12th May at Coombe Abbey Hotel. New Directions’ was the event’s nominated charity this year and representatives from our charity attended. The awards are supported by Cemex and hosted by Rugby FM. The evening’s raffle raised an impressive £1,615 for New Directions, which was also shortlisted as a finalist for the Rugby’s Pride Award. Many thanks go to all the generous guests who took part in the raffle and raised valuable funds toward supporting for local people at New Directions.
There was a fine dining experience for all the attendees where a short video played about New Directions. The awards ceremony followed and was presented by Rugby FM’s Jason Moss and Kirsty Leahy. The thankyou speeches were heartfelt and inspiring. Congratulations go to all the finalists and winners of the Pride of Rugby Awards for local businesses’ this year from our charity.
The shortlists demonstrated just how much the local community has achieved over the past year. During the community awards, there was a standing ovation for a young Carer of the Year, Thomas Wood, who despite incredible challenges in his life including losing his father to suicide, manages to support his siblings with special needs as well as raising funds for other young carers and their families with Warwickshire Young Carers.
There was also recognition for Citizen of the Year, Joanne Finney who is the Learning Disability Partnership Board Rep for Rugby. Joanne was also a volunteer at New Directions day activities and opportunities service. A special mention goes to Rugby Autism Network who won a well-deserved Rugby’s Pride Award. The charity has provided signposting and services to more than 100 families through their discussion groups with a focus on attending safe and entertaining places. Its has supported more than 300 families in its 6 years. The awards evening was a remarkable success and a fantastic opportunity to raise the profile of New Directions in the community. Our thanks go to the team at Rugby FM for their very welcome support, which has enabled our charity to experience this event which was an inspiration to us all.