Bedford residents invited to nominate local sporting heroes for awards.

Bedford Borough Council is calling on residents to recognise the people who make a real difference in sport and physical activity in the area, as nominations open for the Bedford Sports & Physical Activity Awards 2025.

The awards celebrate outstanding individuals, coaches, clubs, volunteers, and schools who inspire and support the local community, from grassroots participants to elite performers.

Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture, said:

“These awards are a wonderful opportunity to honour the dedication, skill, and success of those who make sport and physical activity such an important part of life in Bedford Borough. From elite athletes to community volunteers, these awards shine a spotlight on the people and groups who help our local sporting community thrive. I encourage everyone to submit nominations and help us celebrate these incredible achievements.”

The 2025 awards feature 14 categories, giving recognition across a wide range of contributions. Categories include Adult and Junior Personality of the Year, Adult and Junior Disability Sports Personality of the Year, Club of the Year, Coach of the Year, Unsung Hero, Team of the Year, Community Person Award, Community Club or Group Award, Primary and Secondary School of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, and Service to Sport. Each category is sponsored by local organisations supporting sport in Bedford Borough.

Nominees must have demonstrated exceptional dedication, skill, or contribution in their category over the past year. The council encourages residents to nominate those who have gone above and beyond to support sport, whether that is on the pitch, in the classroom, or within local community clubs.

Full information on eligibility and nomination criteria is available at www.bedford.gov.uk/sportsawards.

The deadline for all nominations is 5pm on Tuesday, 18 November 2025. The awards ceremony will take place on Monday, 8 December 2025 at Bedford Corn Exchange.