Ballymena’s ‘Recognition Awards’ - send your nominations

In the past, the Council has honoured the exceptional achievements and contributions of its citizens through civic receptions and, of course, by bestowing the highest Council accolade of Freedom of the Borough to individuals and groups such as Liam Neeson, Dr Syd Millar, Dr Ian Paisley and the Royal Irish Regiment.

However, with the merging of Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus Councils to form Mid and East Antrim District Council in April 2015, this is the last opportunity for Ballymena Borough Council to officially recognise the achievements and contributions of people from the area.

Speaking at the launch of the Awards, Mayor of Ballymena Cllr Audrey Wales, said: “I would encourage all members of the public to have a think about who they would like to see recognised for their achievements and contributions as it will be a wonderful legacy for Ballymena Borough Council to honour these exceptional individuals.”

Members of the public are invited to nominate people who they feel are of sufficient merit to warrant this prestigious Recognition Award.

Examples of this could include:

A local employer who has created sustainable employment throughout the Borough.

A sportsperson who has achieved excellence in their field.

A church person who has dedicated his or her life to helping others either here or throughout the world.

A scientist or someone from the medical profession who has received international acclaim for their contribution to science or medicine.

A community volunteer who has dedicated all of their spare time over many years, for no financial reward, in helping others and is instantly recognisable in this field.

Someone from the world of show-business/media/arts who has achieved significant national or international acclaim.

Nominations are welcome from all sectors including, for example, industry, science, church, public sector, sports, arts, education, leisure, community and charity.

Criteria for nomination:

All nominees must either live or work, or have lived or worked, within the Borough.

Nominated groups must either live or work or have made a significant/exceptional contribution within the Borough.

Nominations cannot be made for present members of Council or for people posthumously. Nominations cannot be made for groups/individuals who have already received a Freedom of the Borough or have had a facility named in their honour.

Nomination forms can be downloaded from www.ballymena.gov.uk. Alternatively, hard copies will be available from Council reception. Nominations can be received electronically (email to [email protected]) or by sending to Recognition Awards, Ballymena Borough Council, 80 Galgorm Road, Ballymena, BT42 1AB. Deadline for nomination is Friday 24th October at 12 noon.

A panel will be set up to judge the nominations. The panel will evaluate each nominee’s merits on the basis of the information provided, and all decisions are final.

The presentation of awards will be made at a ceremony in the Braid Town Hall in early 2015.