Hailsham Town Council is delighted to announce that it is once again Supporting Sponsor of the 2026 Hailsham Hero Awards, helping to celebrate the outstanding individuals, charities, community groups and businesses that make a positive difference across Hailsham.
The Council is particularly pleased to support the Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award, the main category of this year’s awards, which recognises an individual whose contribution to the town and its community deserves special recognition.
The official shortlist of nominations for the 2026 Hailsham Hero Awards has now been announced, with an inspiring selection of finalists across seven categories.
Outstanding Young Person Award
Business Contribution Award
Charity of the Year Award
Group/Organisation of the Year Award
Special Recognition Award
Make a Difference Award
Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award
Public voting is now open, giving residents the opportunity to show their support and have their say in celebrating this year’s Hailsham Heroes. The Town Council is encouraging residents to take a look at the full shortlist, learn more about the finalists and cast their vote at: hailshamhero.co.uk
The Hailsham Hero Award was previously organised by Hailsham Town Council and was relaunched in 2024. The awards are now organised by Hailsham News and Hailsham FM, continuing the tradition of recognising the extraordinary people who help make Hailsham a better place.
From volunteers and fundraisers to inspirational young people, community champions, local businesses and charitable organisations, the awards shine a light on the many people whose efforts make a lasting difference.
“The Hailsham Hero Awards are a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people and organisations who give so much to our community, often quietly and without expecting anything in return,” said Town Mayor Cllr Chris Bryant. “Hailsham is fortunate to have so many individuals who volunteer their time, support others, raise funds, run community initiatives and go the extra mile to make a real difference to the lives of those around them.”
“The Town Council is delighted to be supporting this year’s awards and, in particular, the Mayor’s Hero of the Year Award. This is a very special category because it provides an opportunity to shine a spotlight on individuals whose commitment, dedication and contribution to our town truly deserve to be recognised.”
Cllr Bryant added: “The shortlist for this year’s awards is incredibly strong and demonstrates just how much talent, generosity and community spirit there is across Hailsham. Each of the finalists has their own story and has made a meaningful contribution, whether through their work with young people, supporting veterans and families, volunteering, fundraising, running a local business, bringing people together or simply being there for others when they are needed.”
“I look forward to celebrating alongside the finalists, their families, friends and supporters at the awards evening in November. It promises to be a fantastic occasion and a fitting celebration of the people who help make Hailsham such a caring, vibrant and community-minded town.”
Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee said: “I would also encourage residents to get involved now that public voting has opened. Take some time to read about the finalists, celebrate their achievements and cast your vote for the people you believe deserve recognition. These awards belong to the whole community, and public support is an important part of making sure our local heroes know how much their efforts are valued.”
“I would like to congratulate every finalist on reaching this stage. Being nominated is itself a wonderful achievement and reflects the appreciation and respect they have earned within our community.”
The winners will be announced at an awards evening on Friday 13 November.
Hailsham Town Council congratulates all of this year’s finalists and looks forward to joining the community in celebrating their achievements at the awards ceremony.
Terry Hall, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Hailsham Town Council, Market Street, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 2AE
Telephone: 01323 841702 | Email: terry.hall@hailsham-tc.gov.uk