Thatcham Town Council is proud to announce the winners of its latest Community Awards, recognising individuals, groups, organisations and businesses who have gone above and beyond in service to the local community.

Each year, nominations are invited from members of the public to celebrate those who demonstrate outstanding dedication, make a significant contribution to public life in Thatcham, and consistently support local residents. A panel of Town Councillors met on to consider all nominations received, and were presented by Mayor of Thatcham Petra Pemberton at the Annual Town Meeting at the Frank Hutchings Community Hall on 23 April 2026.

Community Contributor Award

The Committee awarded two Community Contributor Awards this year:

• Group/Organisation Winner: Glendale Youth Café Team. Offering a safe and welcoming space for Thatcham’s young people from to enjoy positive social and adventurous experiences.
• Individual Winner: Pete Stuart. Pete has been a familiar, warm and friendly presence at Thatcham Train Station for many years, always going the extra mile to help passengers find the best routes and fares.
• High Commended: Community United, MOVEability, and Newbury Pride.

Environmental Champion Award

• Winner: Patricia Glover, for her inspiring work helping communities make confident, informed choices that support a low‑carbon future.
• Highly Commended: Emily Down.

Inspiring Young Person Award

• Winner: Sienna Williams. Sienna proudly represented both her club, Summit Gymnastics, and the deaf community at the Disability British Championships 2025, inspiring many through her determination and achievements.
• Highly Commended: Sophie Cooke and Kennet School Wellbeing Forum. 

Volunteer Champion Award

The Committee selected two Volunteer Champion winners:

• Individual Winner: Janice Schofield, for over 40 years of heartfelt dedication to the preschool, church and those she supports in times of need.
• Group/Organisation Winner: Thatcham Community Larder, for all their volunteers dedication to supporting the community with weekly food, clothing, books, and vital local advice.
• Highly Commended: Freddie Bigglesworth. 

Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to two outstanding individuals whose long-standing commitment has left a lasting legacy in Thatcham:

• Mike Farmer, a lifelong Thatcham resident, has devoted more than 50 years to supporting local causes. His service includes extensive leadership roles within the Newbury District Agricultural Society, volunteering in education as a school governor, work with the Citizens Advice Bureau, and managing challenging portfolios at the Thatcham Memorial Foundation – always with a reputation for practical and effective problem-solving.
• Denise Newport, a cornerstone of the Francis Baily School community since 1984, has also been an inspiring leader in the Guiding movement for 57 years. Through her roles as a teaching assistant, Brownie leader, and community volunteer, Denise has positively influenced generations of children and families, earning widespread respect for her unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds.

Thatcham Town Council congratulates all winners and highly commended nominees and thanks them for their exceptional contributions to the community.