Two people from the Stroud district have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to their communities at the BBC Radio Gloucestershire Make a Difference Awards 2026.
Maizee Philipson, from Nailsworth, was named winner of the Young Hero Award, while Chrissie Lowery, from Stroud, received the Great Neighbour Award.
The pair were among eight individuals and groups from across Gloucestershire celebrated at a special awards ceremony at Pittville Pump Room in Cheltenham on Friday, September 4.
The awards recognise people who go above and beyond to make a difference to others in their local communities.
Maizee has brought positivity and beauty to her experience of living with epilepsy through pageants and her support for others.
Chrissie, a survivor of domestic abuse, was recognised for setting up The Angel Project, which supports others affected by domestic abuse.
The other 2026 Gloucestershire winners were:
- Volunteer Award: Sam McHillary, from Gloucester, a volunteer with Severn Area Rescue Association in Tewkesbury.
- Active Award: Emma Jones, a teacher recognised for running an inclusive rugby club in Norton.
- Animal Award: Vicki Oliver, founder of Brockworth Hedgehog Rescue, who has cared for hedgehogs for more than 10 years and expects to look after around 1,000 this year.
- Environmental Award: Rob Hopkins, who has spent 20 years litter picking in Cheltenham town centre.
- Fundraiser Award: Claire and John Smith, from Gloucester, who have raised more than £70,000 to support families affected by child loss following the stillbirth of their son Jamie.
- Community Group Award: Toucan for Children, a Forest of Dean charity using play and creative arts to support children experiencing emotional difficulties.
The winners were selected by a panel of local judges including Cordell Ray MBE, Florence Nyasamo, Rosie Levy and Jon Smith.
The awards were hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire breakfast presenter Jon Smith, who described the event as “a huge highlight of my year”.
“I’m delighted we can all come together to share some brilliant stories of people from across the county,” he said.
“We all know those day-to-day heroes who go above and beyond, doing their bit, quietly getting on with it. We’re celebrating them.”
Now in its fifth year, the Make a Difference Awards have continued to grow, with BBC Local receiving thousands of nominations from across the country.
The initiative began during the Covid-19 pandemic, originally helping to connect people in need with those who could offer support.
It has since developed into a nationwide awards programme celebrating individuals, community groups and even animals making a lasting difference in their local areas.
Carly Appleby, Executive Editor at BBC Radio Gloucestershire, said the awards were a reminder of the community spirit across the county.
“The Make a Difference Awards are a powerful reminder of the kindness, generosity and community spirit that exists in Gloucestershire,” she said.
“I’m so glad we’ve had the opportunity to recognise and celebrate our unsung heroes this year.”
Chris Burns, Head of Audio Commissioning, said: “Every year, the BBC Local Make a Difference Awards reveal the incredible efforts of people who go above and beyond to support those around them.
“The calibre of nominations this year has been exceptional, and we’ve been deeply moved by the many stories of compassion, resilience and community spirit.”
He added: “We’re proud to recognise these extraordinary individuals and give them the appreciation they so richly deserve.”
