Citizens 4 Good Celebrates Community Champions at Bootle Town Hall

On 30th March 2026, Citizens 4 Good brought together 11 inspiring nominees—including two community groups and a couple of remarkable young people—for a special celebration at Bootle Town Hall. The event highlighted the extraordinary efforts of individuals and organisations making a meaningful difference across Sefton.

In uncertain times, Citizens 4 Good serves as a powerful reminder that positive work is happening every day, often quietly and without recognition. This event helped shine a light on those unsung heroes and the lasting impact they have on their communities.

Among those recognised were Claire Kelly, who supports young people in discovering their musical talents while also creating spaces for women to connect, Eloise, a dedicated teenager raising funds for charities established by families affected by the Southport attack and to a care home giving exceptional end of life care. Also nominated were the volunteers from Formby Befriending Scheme, Marine in the Community, Woodvale and Ainsdale Community Centre and Indy Pantry.

A highlight of the evening was the launch of the new ‘Citizen Superstar Award’, introduced for the very first time to recognise an individual or group whose contribution goes above and beyond. This award celebrates those whose actions have made a truly significant impact on the lives of others and helps shine a light on exceptional community leadership. The inaugural winners of this award were Marine in the Community, recognised for their outstanding dedication and impact within the community. Moving forward, one standout nominee will be selected at each Citizens 4 Good event to receive this special honour.

The event was attended by the Mayor of Sefton, Cllr June Burns, alongside Cllr Jen Corcoran, Cllr Jan Grace, and Cllr Les Byrom, as well as nominators, friends, and family members of the nominees.

Catrin Hughes, Volunteer Development Officer, said:

“Citizens 4 Good is about recognising the incredible people who make a difference every day, often without expecting anything in return. In challenging times, it’s more important than ever to celebrate these individuals and remind ourselves of the strength, kindness, and resilience within our communities.”

The Citizens 4 Good event continues to grow as a celebration of local pride, compassion, and the power of community action. The next event is due to take place on 6^Th July in Maghull. If you would like to nominate someone please go to the Sefton4Good website. sefton4good.org.uk

Here is the list of all the nominees from Citizens 4 Good March 2026:

Jason Mahoney – Jason is an exceptional neurodiverse young person who has made a remarkable contribution to both Arden College and the wider Southport community through volunteering.

Claire Kelly – Claire Kelly is an inspiring figure who founded Southport Ladies Group- a community of over 2000 ladies, providing social connection and activities whilst shining a spotlight on local businesses and raising thousands for charities, founding ‘Southport Young Musicians Competition’, founding ‘The Mayor’s Arts Gala’ for the Mayor’s Charity and supporting local theatre with reviews.  

Marine in the Community – Their volunteers were nominated for going above and beyond in their work to help the older community feel less isolated. Through their regular lunch clubs they create a space filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine human connection.

Julia Fahey – Julia was nominated for going above and beyond at the Southport Macmillan Centre and wider volunteering within the community.

Eloise Connolly – Elosie was nominated due to her working tirelessly to raise funds for Bebe’s Hive, Alice’s Wonderdance, and Elsie’s Story by hand-crocheting thousands of trinkets, soft toys, and keyrings, which she raffles to raise funds.

Formby Befriending – The volunteers of Formby Befriending have volunteered over 30,000 hours and made a difference in the lives of hundreds of isolated people in Formby.

Nemira Corder, Fiona Roberts and Sue Hall was nominated for their dedication to volunteering at the Ainsdale & Woodvale Community Centre

Liz Seville and Woodlands Care Home staff – was nominated for delivering exceptional, person-centred care with compassion, dignity, and kindness, supporting both residents and their families every step of the way. They were nominated by relatives of late resident John Leaker.

Darren Cluff –  Darren was nominated for his dedication to volunteering at the Indy Pantry and Canal & Riverside Trust in Bootle.