Vectis Radio’s 4Ps Project is among eight winners recognised by BBC Radio Solent for their work across local communities.
The project, based in Newport on the Isle of Wight, received the Community Group Award for using radio broadcasting to develop communication skills, confidence and self esteem among young people.
Winners from Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight were recognised during a ceremony at the Utilita Bowl in Southampton, presented by BBC Radio Solent hosts Rick Jackson and Katie Martin.
Charlotte Blanchard from Bournemouth received the Volunteer Award for her work with Space Youth Project, a Dorset LGBT+ group she started in 2001. She has continued supporting young people while securing funding and serving as co chair of its trustees.
Poole community café operator Carole Taylor received the Great Neighbour Award. Her not for profit café, The Hub, provides a welcoming community space for local people.
Russell Matthews from Fareham was named Fundraiser after completing 12 marathons and raising £42,000 for Young Lives vs Cancer following his son Harry’s leukaemia diagnosis.
The Environmental Award went to the Victoria Road Gardeners in Woolston, while eight year old Teddy Michaelides from Southampton received the Young Hero Award after helping to recycle 11,000 plastic sweet tubs and raising money for Macmillan.
Eighty six year old John Molloy from Havant received the Active Award for 44 years of coaching and mentoring grassroots gymnastics. Nelly from Netley Abbey received the Animal Award for helping children learn to read through the Read2Dogs scheme with her owner Mary.
BBC Radio Solent Executive Editor Ian Ramsdale said: “Whether nominees, finalists or winners, they don’t do what they do for awards or recognition, they do it because they care, and it’s a privilege for us to share their inspiring stories.”
The Make a Difference initiative began during the Covid pandemic and is now in its fifth year.
