Nominations have now opened
This year’s Pride of Reading Awards have been launched to highlight those who make or have made an impact within our local community. Do you know someone who has made a difference?
Nominations close at 6pm on Friday 31 July 2026 and are being featured on our social media channels.
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Business in Action
Sponsored by Boyes Turner
Recognising businesses both big and small that go beyond their day-to-day operations to make a meaningful and lasting contribution to their local community — supporting, engaging, helping to build a stronger and more inclusive Reading.
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Charity of the Year
Sponsored by Cream Design
Recognising a local charity that through working in partnership with businesses or the voluntary/public sector has made an amazing impact on our community.
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Child of Courage
Sponsored by De Vere Wokefield Estate
Recognising a young person (16 or under) who has demonstrated courage and determination through battling illness or other challenging circumstances.
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Climate and Sustainability Impact Award
Sponsored by University of Reading
Recognising a group, business or individual who by their commitment and dedication, has brought people together to create collective and positive environmental change and innovation for the better. It celebrates those who are committed to delivering creative solutions for a more sustainable future.
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Community of the Year
Sponsored by Hilton Reading
A neighbourhood that has encouraged community spirit and by working together has made their area a better place to live and thrive.
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Employee of the Year
Sponsored by Reading Buses
Recognising an employee whose contribution, behaviour or success has enhanced their company, or who have gone the extra mile for their customers.
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Grassroots Music Award
Sponsored by Pride of Reading CIC
Recognising an organisation, venue or event that has made an exceptional contribution to developing, supporting and celebrating live grassroots music in Reading.
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Health Worker of the Year
Sponsored by Clearview Intelligence
Shining a light across our community. This award honours the health professional who goes the extra mile to provide exceptional care, support, and humanity in every interaction.
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Hospitality Award
Inspired by and in memory of Hilary Scott
Sponsored by Cherubs Floral Design
Recognising excellence in the hospitality industry, either an individual or business that has shown resilience, outstanding dedication to their customers and a strong commitment to our town. Includes pubs, cafes, restaurants and hotels in the Reading area.
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Independent Retailer of the Year
Sponsored by REDA & Reading BID
Independent retailers in Reading who are at the heart of their community, providing excellent customer service and promoting the work of small businesses in our town.
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Local Hero
Sponsored by Green Park
Someone who through a special act of kindness, courage or selflessness, has made a positive difference to their community.
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Music Legacy Award
Sponsored by Vale & West
Recognising a person who has made an outstanding contribution to music. Ensuring a legacy that has inspired generations of artists and audiences in Reading.
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Neighbourhood Champion
Sponsored by Reading Football Club
A person who works tirelessly in their neighbourhood, in the voluntary sector, as carer, for a community group or charity, by devoting their time to others.
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Putting Reading on the Map
Sponsored by Purple Turtle & Jacobs the Jewellers
Recognising a group, business or individual who by their commitment and dedication, will have raised the profile of our fantastic town in a positive and influential light regionally, nationally or internationally.
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School of the Year
Sponsored by Educatering Solutions
A school that makes an outstanding contribution to the lives of its pupils and the wider community. Open to nursery, primary, secondary and SEN schools in Reading, that create supportive, inclusive and inspiring environments where young people can thrive.
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The Chris Tarrant Award
Sponsored by The Oracle
This award honours an individual or group deserving special recognition for the outstanding contribution they have made to Reading.
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The Inspiration Award
Sponsored by McDonald’s
A person who has inspired a community or inspired others to achieve something outstanding. Or simply someone who is a positive role model for young people.
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Volunteer/s of the Year
Sponsored by AB Walker
An individual or team engaged in diverse and challenging tasks or simply have stepped up when needed to help others.