Onto the awards...
The award was presented by Emily Gardiner, HR & Communications Director at T Brown Group.
Penny has been waving the flag of inclusion for many years - we first met Penny back in 2020 when we took Pride on the road during the pandemic. She welcomed us to Godalming along our tour with open arms and campaigned to bring Pride to Godalming in 2021. Years on, Penny still drives forward with helping us making Surrey a more inclusive place to live, work and visit.
The award was presented by Chris Malden, Managing Director of Prestige Security.
The Boileroom, situated on Stoke Fields Guildford, has always prided itself in creating a safe, inclusive space for all. They open their doors year-round to the Surrey's LGBTQ+ community, showcasing local queer talent, and recently celebrated the first anniversary of 'Fruit Bowl' their monthly LGBTQ+ night.
The award was presented by Charlie Watts, CEO of Pride in Surrey and Craig Spencer, Finance Director of Pride in Surrey.
Thorpe Park has shown amazing support for Pride in Surrey for many years now - they fly the progressive flag with the Pride in Surrey logo at their resort year-round and last year introduced their 'Thorpe Pride' clothing range which raises funds for Pride in Surrey.
The award was presented by Jason and Rob from Curated by Dapper & Suave.
Surrey Libraries are more than just libraries, they create individual safe spaces for their local community. They develop inclusive workshops and events, bringing literature from within the LGBTQ+ community to the forefront.
The award was presented by Hazell Dean, Patron of Pride in Surrey.
Lucy Clark-Taylor was honoured a "powerhouse" and "force of nature" by Hazell, for her work within the trans community. Lucy has accomplished many things over the years and wears many hats, from co-founding Trans Radio UK, to introducing TRUK Listens, TRUK United FC and more recently becoming the manager of Sutton United Women's. Not to forget Lucy made headlines when she became UK football's first professional transgender referee.
The award was presented by Samuel Powell, Volunteer Manager at Pride in Surrey, on behalf of Penningtons Manches Cooper.
TRUK United FC were formed in January 2021 with the aim of connecting the community, supporting TRUK Listens and making football a more inclusive sport. They play charity and friendly matches as well as entering tournaments and cup competitions around the UK and beyond.
The award was presented by Cllr Catherine Houston, portfolio holder of Events at Guildford Borough Council, on behalf of Maserati Ascot.
South West Surrey Domestic Abuse Service (SWSDAS) provides free and confidential support for Guildford & Waverley Borough residents affected by domestic abuse.
The award was presented by Lucy Merritt, Head of Communications at SES Water.
Ian has been working in HIV & sexual health services for 24 years now. He has been championing LGBTQ+ rights form within his role with NHS CNWL and his work in reducing the stigma of HIV and getting tested has been remarkable.
Shortlisted nominees: I Choose Freedom
Penny Rivers, winner of Ally of the Year pictured with Charlie Watts, Stephen Ireland & Craig Spencer, Directors of Pride in Surrey.
James & Dan, Co-owners of Coffee Flamingo who attended the awards evening.
Shortlisted nominees, Surrey Police.
Charlie Watts, Chief Executive of Pride in Surrey, pictured with Ian Cole winner of Community Champion Award.
Charlie Watts, Chief Executive of Pride in Surrey, pictured with Ian Cole winner of Community Champion Award.
Members of Surrey Rainbow Choir, shortlisted nominees for Community Group or Service of the year.