The Rainham Community Awards presentation took place at St Margaret's Church on 13th September 2025. The winners of the different categories were as follows:
WILD ABOUT RAINHAM
Sponsored by :
Presented by Leon Roskilly & John Weir
Winner: Leigh Academy
Contact:
At Leigh Academy, every patch of wildlife-friendly space isn't just
greenery—it's a thriving biodiversity hotspot, connecting rather than
isolating pockets of nature. By establishing a dedicated nature reserve
within the school grounds, Leigh Academy has:
- Students gain hands-on experience with nature, deepening their
understanding of ecosystems and their importance to our planet.
- The reserve actively contributes to the ecological richness of Rainham,
boosting biodiversity, linking habitats and supporting wildlife throughout
the area.
- More than a teaching tool, the nature reserve cultivates a long-term
respect for the environment, encouraging students to be guardians of
the natural world, benefitting both the community and the climate.
EVOLVING ECO
Sponsored by : The Baha’i Community
Presented by Dr Farzin Yazamaidi
Winner: Rivermead EPR
Contact: Aurelie Bohunicka-Charles
They have shown outstanding dedication to revitalising local spaces and
promoting sustainability. Their efforts include:
- Led by their committed teacher Aurelie Bohunicka-Charles, this small
group of Post 16 learners deeply care about their local community and
actively seek to make a meaningful difference.
- Students regularly litter pick to clean up Rainham and Parkwood,
partnering with Veolia to explore how local waste is managed and
recycled.
- Using their own initiative, learners began transforming a neglected
space into a vibrant eco garden. They maintain it weekly, planting herbs,
fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and even building a mini pond and
compost system.
- EPR revitalised overgrown outdoor areas into colourful, sensory-rich
green spaces, adding benches and edible plants that benefit all learners,
especially those with Special Educational Needs.
GREAT GARDEN
Sponsored by : the net magazine
Presented by Hamish Mackay Miller
Winner: 43 Bloors Lane
Contact: Tony Rist, 43 Bloors Lane, Rainham, Kent. ME8 7EG
What a difference a house makes, beautifully laid out flowers and bushes with that lovely shaped tree. Hanging baskets and small trees either side of their door too!
HEALTH, WELLBEING & ACTIVITY
Sponsored by : Sapphire Care
Presented by Carlie Terry
Winner: MA|RR (Mutual Aid Road Reps)
Contact: Kate Belmonte
Known as MARR, with a volunteer-led mission rooted in kindness, inclusion, and
connection they are transforming the landscape of community wellbeing across
Rainham and Medway. Their wide-reaching impact includes:
- Combating Loneliness and Isolation through free, welcoming sessions and
providing safe spaces where new friendships blossom.
- Their Coffee, Chat & Connect sessions in Rainham offer relaxed conversation,
refreshments, and a warm atmosphere
- Specialised Support Groups like The Friendship Spectrum for Autistic adults and
Brainstormz for people with neurological challenges, show MARR's commitment to
inclusivity and understanding.
- Every programme is delivered without charge, reflecting their dedication to
fairness, accessibility, and genuine community care.
UNSUNG HERO
Sponsored by : Kitchen Culture
Presented by Naushabah Khan MP
Winner: Joshua Wood
Contact:
Joshua’s creative spirit turns simple activities into lasting memories and powerful
local engagement.
- Designed and led free word hunts at Halloween and Easter, inspiring children and
adults alike to explore Rainham Rec while fostering neighbourhood connections.
- Photography Mentorship —both on mobile phones and digital cameras—
compositional techniques, editing tools, and practical tips, igniting a passion for
photography in aspiring snappers of all ages.
- Volunteers his photographic talents to capture photos for My Shining Star
Children’s Cancer Charity, and also local landscapes, wildlife and community
images across social media sparking conversation and bringing hidden local gems
to light
- He also is involved with Army Cadets and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award,
demonstrating a can-do attitude that motivates others.
GREAT NEIGHBOUR
Sponsored by : Kitchen Culture
Presented by The Mayor of Medway Councillor Trevor Clarke
Winner: Alan Benz
Contact:
What began as a simple helping hand has grown into a treasured friendship built on
reliability, care, and quiet generosity.
- Whether it’s bin day or caring for beloved pets, Alan steps in without hesitation
whenever his neighbours are away.
- His kindness shines through in the smallest gestures, always ready to help with
gentle consistency and genuine care.
- With a calm presence and generous spirit, Alan is a joy to live near - trusted,
appreciated, and irreplaceable.
RAINHAM CREATIVE
Sponsored by : Brewers Decorator Centre Gillingham
Presented by Harry Talbot & Shayne Mccosh
Winner: Little Big Events
Contact:
Little Big Events, founded by the creative and dedicated Scarlett Denness, has
quickly become a cornerstone of the Rainham parent community. Rooted in the
Montessori philosophy, this unique initiative delivers beautiful, engaging experiences
for children aged 0–5, while also nurturing connection and creativity among families.
Its highlights include:
- Monthly themed events at the Millennium Centre feature natural, high-quality
materials, soft play setups, and stimulating activities that promote curiosity and
learning.
- Curated sessions for children with SEN and their families, offering a welcoming
space where everyone feels supported and included.
- Every session is crafted with intention, messy play, creative details, and gentle
aesthetics make each visit a joy.
- Scarlett also champions local businesses.
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
Sponsored by : 1st Accounts (UK) Ltd
Presented by Nicola Everett & Mr Maker
Winner: Southern Print Services
Contact: Sam
Samantha turns every print job into an act of generosity, offering free services to
local football clubs and reduced pricing for many local groups.
- She supplies kits, posters, match programs, and promotional materials at heavily
reduced cost to grassroots teams.
- She has a heart of gold, never resting while there’s someone to help—juggling
urgent print requests and fixes with dedication.
-Samantha always prioritises others’ needs before her own, fostering deep trust and
gratitude throughout Rainham.
-Samantha’s selfless spirit and tireless commitment exemplify how one person’s
kindness can help the community.
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
Presented by Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Brigadier Andrew Wood TD DL VR
Winner: Twydall Community Kitchen
Contact:
Launched in March 2024 by Michele and her team at Holy Trinity Church Hall.
Twydall Community Kitchen has become a lifeline for those facing food insecurity
and social isolation. Week after week, their passion, warmth, and hard work shine
through—making a lasting impact on the lives they touch.
Key contributions include:
- Over 2,000 hot, healthy meals have been served in the past year, with pantry items
provided to supplement every plate. Up to 50 meals are prepared and shared
weekly, all gratefully received.
- Guests are met with kindness and dignity—the food is outstanding, and the
atmosphere is one of genuine care.
- Many guests are connected with essential services—housing, benefits, and
employment.
- These are all faithful weekly volunteers: Team members like Michele, Sue, Kevin
and Hilda dedicate themselves to preparing and serving meals - offering not just
nourishment, but companionship.