This year's Ely Hero Awards launch party was held on Monday, April 17 in the beautiful surroundings of The Poets House Hotel.

Among the sponsors and other guests was Julie Spence OBE QPM, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire who spoke to local business sponsors, judges and past winners from 2022.

Organisers have said the importance of the support of the Lieutenancy brings a "wonderful and exciting dimension" to the Ely Heroes event.

During the presentation the chosen Charity of the Year was unveiled – which is The Prospects Trust.

Maz Baker, executive director of the charity shared with the guests the story of the Trust’s humble beginnings.

Ely Standard: During the presentation the chosen Charity of the Year was unveiled – which is The Prospects Trust.During the presentation the chosen Charity of the Year was unveiled – which is The Prospects Trust. (Image: ELY HEROES)

 

It was launched in 1989 and there 80 co-workers that are taken care of under its wings of social enterprise providing meaningful work to individuals with additional needs.

Ely Hero Awards has said it is proud to support and help raise the profile of small Ely- based charities each year.

There are 18 local businesses who sponsor the event, and their continued support enables the organisers to put on a fabulous, glitzy award ceremony each year.

Ely Standard: Staff from Lovewell Blake at the launch party.Staff from Lovewell Blake at the launch party. (Image: ELY HEROES)

Ely Standard: The launch party was held in Ely on Monday night.The launch party was held in Ely on Monday night. (Image: ELY HEROES)

This is held at The Maltings in Ely where finalists are made to feel like royalty and winners are crowned in each of the 10 categories.

Last year's winners were present at this years’ launch party and it were able to chat and catch up with their sponsors.

Ely Standard: Sue Marchant (middle) was at the launch on Monday night.Sue Marchant (middle) was at the launch on Monday night. (Image: ELY HEROES)

Ely Standard: Thorlabs at the launch.Thorlabs at the launch. (Image: ELY HEROES)

 

How you can get involved

Do you know anyone who could be considered to be a local hero?

Nominees need to live or work in Ely or one of the surrounding East Cambridgeshire villages?

If you do, why not consider nominating them for an Ely Hero Award. Nominations can be made in one of the 10 categories by going online at: www.elyheroawards.org.uk.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, June 2.