The finalists of the 2024 Ely Hero Awards have been announced.

The shortlist announcement is said to have followed an "unprecedented number of nominations across all categories and some very difficult decisions".

Smiliest Server

  • Phil & Rachel Tate – Propser
  • Georgie Corley – Royal Mail
  • Joann Jobling – Marmalade & Jam

Colleague of the Year

  • Dean Burtenshaw
  • Clare Gatherole
  • Toby Fisher

Caring Companion

  • Lisa Radcliffe & Holly Wilson

Most Amazing Professional

  • Vicky Lomas – Vixercise
  • Sara Vail – Vail Funeral Services
  • Sue Smith – Sweet Peas Childminding

Neighbour of the Year

  • Sheila Wilson
  • Becky Stanford
  • Bryony Braschi

Community Champion

  • Nathan Buckle
  • Laurence Maskell
  • Beth Brunton

Best Teacher

  • Emma Holland
  • Lisa Berry
  • Cathy Brown

Child of Achievement

  • Noah Arbon
  • Hephzibah Akinwale
  • Connie Gableman
  • Jessica Preston 

Sporting Hero

  • Eddie Guest
  • Ben Morris
  • SHOT – Group Nomination

THE Ely Hero

  • Angels Arribas
  • Linda Dummett
  • Linda Hutchinson 

The winners will be announced as a surprise on the night of the ceremony, which takes place on Friday September 13.

Luke Smith, co-organiser, said: "We are very excited for the seventh season of the Ely Hero Awards, where the winners of each category will be announced as a surprise on the night.

"This year has seen an unprecedented number of nominations across all the categories and the judging panel have done a sterling job of making very difficult decisions.

"We really want to highlight though how all of the finalists are heroes - they really are winners in their own right.

"The event will be a black-tie masquerade ball and will include entertainment, a charity auction and of course the opportunity to spoil all of our guests with welcome drinks and canapes, dinner and wine at the table."