The BBC is inviting people across Gloucestershire to shine a light on the unsung heroes in their community for the 2026 BBC Radio Gloucestershire Make a Difference Awards.
Listeners can nominate their local heroes in eight different categories (see below). Since the awards began across the UK in 2022, thousands of people have been recognised for going the extra mile to support others. Last year, over 12,500 people were nominated for an award.
The aim remains simple, to celebrate everyday heroes who make life better for those around them in their local communities.
Here in Gloucestershire, Bryan Higgs – from Lydney Amateur Boxing Club – won The Volunteer Award last year. He has volunteered for more than three decades training children and young adults in boxing.
“I was so emotional about it when I won it, because I’ve never won anything like that in my life before. I was just overwhelmed with it,” he said. “My daughter nominated me. It’s quite funny, I said I deserve an award sometime for doing what I’ve done, and she had already put me forward for it So it’s quite funny really.”
And Jean Levy, 91, who has lived in the same street in Cheltenham for 56 years, scooped The Great Neighbour Award and described it as a “wonderful” occasion.
“I couldn’t believe it, quite honestly, I was so thrilled and so pleased I had won it,” she added.
Ms Levy is well-known for organising street parties, pruning colourful displays of flowers and caring for everyone living around her.
She said: “I didn’t mention it in the road, to anybody, but I’m sure more of them know because they said ‘oh, we heard you’!”.
Jon Smith, presenter of BBC Radio Gloucestershire’s Breakfast Show, and host of the awards, said the event was “a real highlight of the year”.
“We met loads of people from right across the county, sharing amazing stories and some brilliant everyday acts of kindness,” he added. “I would love it if you could help us honour and recognise those who make a difference where we live.”
Rhuanedd Richards, BBC Director of Nations said: “The Make a Difference Awards are a powerful reminder of the kindness, generosity and community spirit that exists in every community across the UK. Our local and national radio stations and online teams are uniquely placed to tell these stories, and we’re proud to come together to celebrate those who are making a real difference to the lives of others.”
Winners will be announced in September at a Make a Difference Awards event hosted by BBC Radio Gloucestershire.
For a full list of categories, see below – and details of how to nominate someone – go to bbc.co.uk/makeadifference, where you can also see full Terms and our Privacy Notice.
Nominations are open now and close at 5pm on Monday 31st March.
