The unsung heroes of Herefordshire & Worcestershire

Winners of the BBC Hereford & Worcester Make A Difference Awards 2026 included multimillion-pound fundraisers, rural community groups and octogenarian sporting legends.

Tammy Gooding announces winners of eight categories, recognising amazing volunteers, environmental groups and young heroes, at a glitzy ceremony at The Courtyard in Hereford.

Eltayeb Bashar from Worcester took home the prize of Volunteer of the Year for his work inspiring inclusion and tackling racism. Leo Sproson from Catshill was our Young Hero, celebrating his work inspiring others whilst battling his own cancer diagnosis.

Sheila Jones from Llangaron near Ross-on-Wye was our Great Neighbour, with her sewing group going strong eleven years after it was first set up. Stan Cantrill from Hereford won the Active Award, for his devotion to teaching judo in the city.

Aura the dog and her owner Penny, from Bewdley, were recognised with the Animal Award, praising their positive impact to humans who need it. Ross Dyke took home the Environmental Award, supporting young people and schools with thousands of kits to grow their own food.

The FTD Brothers, from Astwood Bank, were praised for 'redefining what it means to live with adversity' winning the Fundraiser Award. The Community Group, in association with the BBC's Morning Live, was won by Lee's Place in Hereford, providing practical and emotional support, seven days a week, to homeless people.