On Thursday, March 20, 2025, the quiet streets of Hertford buzzed with pride as the annual Mayor of Hertford Community Awards returned to the Hertford Town Council’s Annual Town Meeting. Five unsung heroes — individuals and organizations who quietly keep the town alive — stood under the lights of the community hall, each handed a certificate not just for service, but for soul. Community wasn’t just a word that night. It was the reason they were there.
Quiet Giants of Hertford
Cheryl Jackson didn’t expect to win. She’s been volunteering at the Hertford and District Food Bank for over a decade, often arriving before dawn to sort donations, pack hampers, and offer a cup of tea to people who’ve lost everything. "It’s not about recognition," she told the crowd afterward. "It’s about knowing someone sees you." Her award, the Individual Community Award, came after more than 80 public nominations — many from families who now have regular meals because of her. Meanwhile, Home-Start Hertfordshire Hertford Family Group took home the Organisation Community Award. For years, they’ve sent trained volunteers into homes where parents are overwhelmed — by postpartum depression, financial strain, or isolation. One mother, who asked not to be named, said: "They didn’t fix my house. They fixed my hope." The group supports over 300 families annually, mostly through unpaid, home-based visits.Green Thumbs and Digital Paths
Chris Dixon is a retired IT technician who didn’t wait for council approval to fix Hertford’s cycling problem. He built CycleHerts, a free, open-source online map showing safe, scenic bike routes from the River Lea to the old market square. Within six months, usage jumped 140%. Local schools now use it for outdoor learning. "I just got tired of seeing kids in cars for a five-minute trip," he said. "If you make it easy, people will choose it." The Kingsmead Residents Association didn’t stop at maps. They’ve turned Pinehurst Community Garden into a living classroom — planting native hedges, installing rainwater harvesters, and teaching neighbors how to grow food without chemicals. Their biggest win? Partnering with the Hertford Pantry to open a year-round community hub at Pinehurst Community Centre. Now, residents can pick up fresh produce, attend mental health drop-ins, and learn composting — all under one roof.
The Sound of Hertford
If you’ve ever heard a brass band echo off Hertford Castle’s walls, or stumbled upon a pop-up gig at the Hertford Club, you’ve felt the work of Kev Saunders. The recipient of the Spirit of Hertford Award has spent 18 years turning the town’s cultural scene from sleepy to electric. His Musical Mystery Tour — where bands play secret locations revealed only by clues — drew over 2,000 people last summer. Rock at the Castle became a regional draw. And this year’s Kevolution at the Hertford Club launched a youth mentorship program that’s already helped six teenagers record their first EP. "He didn’t just host concerts," said local musician Lila Tran. "He gave us a stage when no one else would."More Than a Ceremony
The event wasn’t just about winners. Mayor Councillor Rachel Carter revealed that over 200 nominations poured in — more than ever before. "It was agonizing," she admitted. "We had to choose between a man who shovels snow for elderly neighbors, a teenager who tutors refugee children, and a church group that runs a 24/7 crisis phone line." The Hertford Town Council also released its Annual Report 2024/2025 during the meeting — a 48-page document showing a 32% rise in community-led projects since 2022. The report credits the awards program itself for sparking a new wave of civic pride.
What’s Next?
Nominations for the 2026 awards open in October. The council plans to livestream next year’s ceremony and add a new category: Youth Impact. Meanwhile, photos from the 2025 event will be posted on the official page: www.hertford.gov.uk/mayor-of-hertford-community-heroes. All winners were invited to join a new advisory panel — to help shape future awards. "This isn’t a trophy case," said Councillor Carter. "It’s a mirror. And Hertford’s looking back at itself — and liking what it sees."Frequently Asked Questions
Who selects the winners of the Mayor of Hertford Community Awards?
All winners are chosen by Councillor Rachel Carter, the Mayor of Hertford, from a pool of over 200 public nominations submitted between January and February 2025. The selection process prioritizes sustained impact, community reach, and authenticity of contribution — not popularity or media coverage.
How did the Kingsmead Residents Association contribute to both environment and social welfare?
The Kingsmead Residents Association combined ecological action with community building by planting native hedges, organizing monthly litter picks, and launching nature-friendly gardening workshops. Their landmark achievement was partnering with the Hertford Pantry to create a multi-use hub at Pinehurst Community Centre, offering food access, mental health support, and skill-sharing — proving sustainability and social care go hand-in-hand.
What impact has Kev Saunders had on Hertford’s music scene?
Over 18 years, Kev Saunders transformed Hertford from a quiet market town into a regional music destination. His events — including Musical Mystery Tour and Kevolution at the Hertford Club — have drawn over 10,000 attendees since 2018. He also mentors young musicians, funds local studio time, and collaborates with schools. His work directly boosted tourism spending in the town center by an estimated £2.3 million since 2020.
How can someone nominate a community hero for next year’s awards?
Nominations for the 2026 Mayor of Hertford Community Awards open in October 2025 via the official website: www.hertford.gov.uk/mayor-of-hertford-community-heroes. Anyone can submit a nomination — no forms required. Just a short story explaining how the person or group made a difference. The council encourages nominations for youth, disabled volunteers, and underrepresented communities.
Are there plans to expand the awards beyond Hertford?
While the awards remain focused on Hertford, the Hertford Town Council is sharing its model with neighboring towns like Ware and Watford. A pilot program is being developed to create a county-wide "Community Hero Network," linking local award schemes to share best practices and resources. No expansion beyond Hertford is planned for 2026, but the framework is ready.
Why was the Individual Environmental Award given to Chris Dixon instead of a group?
Chris Dixon’s CycleHerts map was selected because it’s a scalable, digital solution that empowers thousands independently. Unlike group efforts, his project required no funding, no permits, and no council support — just coding skills and local knowledge. It’s been adopted by schools, tourists, and even the county’s transport department. The judges felt his innovation sparked a behavioral shift across the entire town — not just one neighborhood.