Who Deserves the Spotlight? Nominations Open for Penzance Citizens of the Year Awards 2025

Celebrating Community Champions

Nominations are now open for the Brian Spiegelhalter Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Awards 2025, recognising individuals in the Penzance Parish who have made a real difference in their community.

The awards, first introduced in 2003 by the late Brian Spiegelhalter of B.J. Spiegelhalter & Son, celebrate local achievements and contributions. Now in their 22nd year, they continue to honour those who go the extra mile to improve the lives of others.

Mark Spiegelhalter said:

“We are honoured to continue this award in memory of my late father, whose steadfast dedication to the local community created a lasting legacy. This initiative preserves his values of compassion and public service whilst recognising outstanding individuals who make a meaningful difference in our local community.”

Who Can Be Nominated?

Anyone living, working or studying in the Parish of Penzance can submit a nomination. The awards are open to individuals across a wide range of activities, including:

• Community service
• Volunteering
• Charity work
• Outstanding achievements
• Local environmental action

There are two award categories:

• Citizen of the Year (aged 18 and over)
• Young Citizen of the Year (aged under 18)

How to Nominate

Nominations must be submitted by 12 noon on Monday 7th April 2025. Forms and full award criteria are available on the Penzance Council website or in print from the Penzance Council offices at the Penlee Centre, Penlee Park.

James Hardy, Penzance Council Town Clerk, encouraged people to take part:

*”We are lucky to have so many worthy candidates in the parish for the Brian Spiegelhalter Citizen of the Year Awards, and we hope to get lots of nominations this year to reflect this.

“These awards are an opportunity for two of these community heroes to share the limelight at the Annual Mayor Choosing Ceremony, whilst also highlighting the invaluable contribution of volunteers to community life.”*

What Happens Next?

Once nominations close, a panel made up of the Town Mayor, Town Clerk, and a representative of B.J. Spiegelhalter & Son will review submissions and select the winners.

The chosen recipients will be invited to the Annual Council Meeting on Monday 19th May at St John’s Hall, Penzance, where they will receive their awards from the Mayor of Penzance. They will also be invited to the Mayor’s Reception immediately following the ceremony.

With so many unsung heroes in the community, the awards offer a chance to recognise and celebrate those making a difference. If you know someone who deserves the spotlight, now is the time to put their name forward.