The warmth and generosity of Colchester’s community were on full display at the most recent Compassionate Community Champions Event, held on 10 April at Colchester Town Hall. The heartwarming event brought together local people and organisations who have gone above and beyond to support others, champion kindness, and make Colchester a more compassionate place to live.
The awards, led by St Helena’s Hospice, Colchester City Council and other partners, recognise inspiring residents, businesses, and organisations across Colchester.
Here is a list of those recognised at the event:
Compassionate Person Awards
- Andrew Topple, for work as a member of New Town Methodist Church, hosting community fun days, coffee mornings and introducing a community food bank.
- Daudu Godwin Onche, for setting up ‘Re-Breath’ a group that provides a safe space for caregivers to come together to find support and respite.
- Jahanara Loqueman, for work with St Helena’s Hospice on cultural sensitivities for Muslim burials.
- Julie Hexley, for being the lead fundraiser for the Haven Project, and chair of The Haven Project Community Forum.
- Kevin Sturdy, for over 30 years dedication to West Bergholt Scouts.
- Les Nicoll, chairman of NEST (North Essex Support Team), who source and provide valuable resources to struggling individuals and families.
- Suzanne Revett, for opening a memorial garden for neighbours to enjoy in honour of her late husband.
- Colchester Blanketeers, for their work knitting and crocheting beautiful blankets for people in hospital on end-of-life care.
- Colchester Business Lunch Club, a group of local professionals led by Thompson Smith & Puxon, who hold regular networking lunches and raise money for local charities.
- David Randall Foundation, providing days out to Essex residents with life limiting conditions.
One final award came as a surprise to the Mayor of Colchester, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, who was presented with a Compassionate Champion award in recognition of her long-standing commitment to the community. Lesley has provided the Compassionate City work and Champions genuine support during her tenure as mayor, sharing insight into her own personal health challenge and connecting with our extraordinary champions. The nomination was made for Lesley’s many years of support for local communities and work on the Dora Love Prize, which stands against identity-based discrimination, and celebrates diversity, inclusion and equality. The spontaneous standing ovation from attendees reflected the deep appreciation and respect felt throughout the room.
The Mayor, visibly moved, said: “It’s been an honour to serve this incredible city and witness the kindness, resilience, and strength of our people. I never expected this recognition, but I accept it on behalf of everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes to lift others up. This city is full of everyday heroes - today, we celebrated them.”
The event was a heartfelt celebration of kindness, recognising the fantastic people across our community who make Colchester a more compassionate place for everyone.
The public are encouraged to nominate their own Compassionate Community Champion - the people, projects and places that you know who are helping improve the lives of others through kindness and compassion. For more information and to make a nomination visit www.sthelena.org.uk/compassion.
Page last reviewed: 11 April 2025