Residents, who were judged to have excelled in their contribution to the town in 2024, have been presented with a community award at a ceremony in Swanage, Dorset.
There were 40 nominations for the awards organised by Swanage Town Council, with 10 awards presented including three lifetime achievement awards and a special Heart and Soul award.
A lifetime achievement award
“They are the heart of our community”
The event took place on Monday 17th March 2025 at The Centre in Chapel Lane, as part of the annual parish assembly.
Addressing all those attending the awards ceremony, Swanage town mayor Tina Foster said:
“The town council would like to express heartfelt gratitude to all the town’s volunteers and local businesses for their dedication, energy and enthusiasm.
“They are the heart of our community, playing a vital role in supporting our towns and villages, especially at a time when public service funding is limited. Their efforts truly make a positive difference, benefitting everyone.
“The council also extends a sincere thank you to the town’s emergency service workers for their tireless commitment and the invaluable service they provide to keep our community safe.
“Thank you all for joining us this evening, let’s continue to support one another and take pride in our wonderful town!”
Award winners for 2024
Harry Peake (left) receives his award from deputy town mayor Chris Moreton (right)
Arts and Heritage – Harry Peake
Harry Peake, the drama and performing arts teacher at The Swanage School and founder of the Peake Performance Academy was nominated for his unwavering commitment to the performing arts, leaving a lasting impact on both The Swanage School and the wider community.
He was particularly praised for The Swanage School’s annual productions at The Mowlem, introducing countless children and families to the magic of theatre and the performing arts, attracting audiences from far and wide.
“More than just a teacher; they are a beacon of inspiration. They have transformed the lives of many students, sparking a love for creativity, teamwork, and self-expression, with some who have gone in to pursue studies in the performing arts.”
Stuart Norman (left), who runs IT repair shop Melody receives his award from Swanage town mayor Tina Foster (right)
Service with a Smile – Stuart Norman of Melody
Stuart Norman, who runs IT repair shop Melody in Station Road, was nominated for engaging with customers and visitors, patiently providing support, assistance and advice, and all with a smile on his face.
“Excellent service, helpful polite man, great value. Highly recommend!”
“Great service and response. This person has helped me many times with repairs to my phone and laptop when everyone else said they could not be fixed. Thank you.”
Joanna Nowosad (left) and Agnieszka Olszewska (middle) from the Old Stables receive their award from Swanage and Purbeck Rotary president Maggie Hardy (right)
Small Business of the Year – Joanna Nowosad and Agnieszka Olszewska of The Old Stables Delicatessen and Eaterie
Sisters Joanna Nowosad and Agnieszka Olszewska received a ‘special mention’ at last year’s 2023 awards ceremony as a newly established business and have now received a further accolade for their work at the Old Stables, an independent business in the Heart of Swanage.
More than a deli, the shop serves a wide selection of cooked meats, cheeses, fruit, vegetables and specialty foods, as well as offering a cafe, serving homemade food, cakes and drinks.
“A hidden gem, not to be missed! Always has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, is well-stocked, and consistently provides excellent customer service.”
“An eco-friendly shop, accommodating individuals’ needs and also serving homemade food. Highly recommend for a different and tasty lunch.”
Student Pierre Martel (left) receives his award from deputy town mayor Chris Moreton (right)
Youth Citizen of the Year – Pierre Martel
Pierre Martel has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication to his community, bringing numerous youth projects to life. At the age of 14 at The Swanage School, he was asked to project manage the Formula 24 team, and in under five months he had led a team of teachers and students to transform a metal chassis into a fully functional race car, successfully racing at Goodwood.
When he was 16, he introduced the project to Lytchett Minster School, fundraising £5,000 to purchase the kit, build, and race the car at Castle Combe.
He was also a Purbeck Coast volunteer radio presenter, presenting a youth show until the station closed in 2024. He then went on to establish a youth group as part of the new community radio station Purbeck Sounds and is now working with The Swanage School to run an in-school radio club.
He also dedicates time to look after his elderly aunt, as well as helping an elderly neighbour.
“This extraordinary young person has shown us all what it means to lead with kindness, perseverance and a heart for service. Their passion has not only brought meaningful projects to life but has also inspired those around him to aim higher, work harder and support one another.”
Mo Andrews (left) and David Collacott (right) receive their award from Swanage and Purbeck Rotary president Maggie Hardy (middle)
Community Award – Mo Andrews and David Collacott of Dementia Friendly Purbeck
Mo Andrews and David Collacott have both played a vital role in raising awareness about dementia and helped to make Purbeck a truly dementia friendly community.
They work tirelessly to raise funds for Dementia Friendly Purbeck, as well as helping to organise the Dementia Café fortnightly at The Mowlem and the Singing for Pleasure Group every Thursday at the Emmanuel Baptist church.
“These wonderful people have devoted themselves to raising awareness about dementia and organising supportive spaces where those affected by the condition, along with their families and carers, can find comfort, connection and joy.”
Ross Wayne (left) receives his award from Swanage town mayor Tina Foster (right)
Volunteer of the Year – Ross Wayne
A leading figure in establishing the hugely successful park run at Durlston Country Park, Ross Wayne has shown unwavering commitment, promoting fitness, friendship and inclusivity. The event welcomes hundreds of participants each week and celebrates its third birthday on Wednesday 19th March 2025.
He also plays a key role in a local running club, offering free coaching, as well as serving the local community in his professional role as a pharmacist.
“His efforts have not only benefitted local residents but have also brought visitors into town, supporting the local economy and boosting the hospitality sector. His work has made a real difference, not only in keeping people active but also in enhancing mental wellbeing, forming friendships and quite possibly, saving lives.”
David Pike (left) receives his award from deputy town mayor Chris Moreton (right)
Lifetime Achievement – David Pike
A dedicated volunteer for many years for Swanage and Purbeck Rotary, David Pike has also spent more than 15 years as an integral part of local drama and musical theatre productions, assisting backstage and managing stage operations.
A steadfast supporter of community events, offering his skills and advice to local venues, and whether its organising annual fetes or playing a pivotal role in festive markets, he has made a tangible difference.
“This is not just someone who volunteers their time – it is someone who embodies the true spirit of community service. Their hard work, kindness and selflessness inspires us all.”
Sharon Doherty receives her father Eric Hudson’s award on his behalf while he was away on holiday, from Swanage and Purbeck Rotary president Maggie Hardy (right)
Eric Hudson (right) with coastguard collegues Steve Westwood (left) and station officer Ian Brown (middle)
Lifetime Achievement – Eric Hudson
Eric Hudson’s dedication to serving the community first began as a volunteer with the RNLI lifeboat crew and then as a retained firefighter for 10 years, responding to some of the most significant incidents in the town. For the past 23 years he has been a vital member of the Swanage Coastguard team.
He has also played an active role in community events, in particular Swanage Carnival.
“His resilience, sense of humour and deep local knowledge has made them a beloved figure, not just among colleagues but throughout the entire community.”
Neil Hardy (left) wasn’t able to attend the event but with his wife Maggie (right), they posed for a picture later
Lifetime Achievement – Joint award Neil Hardy MBE and Maggie Hardy
Husband and wife, Neil and Maggie Hardy were jointly nominated for a lifetime achievement award.
Neil Hardy has given his time and energy to Swanage RNLI and to the Swanage and Purbeck Rotary Club. For more than 30 years he has helped save lives at sea, serving as the lifeboat operations manager, braving challenging conditions, responding to emergencies and supporting the vital work of the lifeboat crew.
“Whether organising charitable events, fundraising for important causes, or simply being a steadfast presence in times of need he embodies the very spirit of generosity.”
Maggie Hardy has played a pivotal role in numerous organisations, striving to improve the lives of those around her. She has worked relentlessly to support and expand access to life saving defibrillators, fundraise for Swanage and Purbeck Rotary, and dedicate her working life to local healthcare.
She served as manager of Swanage Hospital from 1992, then as the locality commissioning manager at the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group and is currently the chair of the Friends of Wareham Community Hospital.
“Her advocacy and support for essential services has strengthened the community in ways that will be felt for years to come.”
Mel Norris (centre) receives the Heart and Soul Award on behalf of him and his wife Gerry from deputy town mayor Chris Moreton (left) and Swanage town mayor Tina Foster (right)
Mel and Gerry Norris in 2021 supporting the Trevor Chadwick Trust
Heart and Soul Award – Mel and Gerry Norris, Community Champions
Awarded to Mel Norris and posthumously to his wife Gerry, who sadly passed away in January 2025. Together they have shown exceptional dedication and tireless commitment to the Swanage community, with a number of campaigns to save local services.
In 2008, when the Swanage Community Hospital closed its minor injuries unit during the night, they joined the ‘Open all Hours’ campaign to secure the Swanage Ambulance car and six specialist staff to provide overnight emergency care.
In 2011 they achieved the reopening of the James Day Care Home in Swanage and in 2012 successfully campaigned for a new modern Swanage Recycling Centre. By 2013 they had fought for and won a new NHS dental service after the town’s only NHS dentist stopped accepting NHS patients.
One of the most significant achievements was in 2014 when they saved Swanage Community Hospital from closure. Their fight continued between 2016 and 2020 as they campaigned to save Pool A and E and maternity services.
Although that was not to be, their efforts delayed closures and even helped save Dorset County Hospital’s maternity and paediatric services in 2017.
Most recently from 2020 to 2022 they played a key role in successfully saving the Swanage Ambulance Car from being scrapped.
“Gerry was a great asset to the Friends of Swanage Hospital committee. She fought tirelessly to improve access to services and facilities, always putting the community first.”
“They are the embodiment of community spirit, showing us that persistence, compassion and unity can move mountains. Their legacy is one of lives saved, services preserved and a town made stronger through their unwavering commitment.”
