Celebrating Swindon’s Heroes: Pride of Swindon Awards Return

Swindon 105.5, Voluntary Action Swindon and Swindon Borough Council are excited to announce the return of the Pride of Swindon Awards, with nominations for the 2026 awards opening at 12pm on Tuesday, 5 November.

First launched in 2008, these will be the 14th Pride of Swindon Awards.  They will celebrate individuals and teams who have made a positive and lasting impact on people, communities and neighbourhoods across the Borough of Swindon. This marks the first time the awards have been held since 2022, making their return all the more special.

Shirley Ludford, Station Manager of Swindon 105.5 and one of the original founders of the awards, said: “Each nomination tells a story and there are so many great stories to be shared and people to be recognised for their contribution to our community.  Over the years there have been so many heartfelt and deserved nominations.  I am delighted we are able to bring the Pride of Swindon Awards back.”

Pam Webb, Trustee of Voluntary Action Swindon (VAS), added: “VAS is very proud to continue to support these awards, our objective is to help strengthen the Swindon Community and without all the amazing individuals and teams recognised through these awards it would be a much harder job!”

Councillor Jim Robbins, Leader of Swindon Borough Council said: “I’m delighted to see the Pride of Swindon awards return. These awards are a true celebration of the incredible people who go above and beyond to make Swindon a better place for everyone. The Council are proud to be supporting this inspiring initiative and I look forward to recognising the everyday heroes who make the Borough so special.”

The 2026 awards will be officially launched by Swindon’s newly appointed Town Crier, Rob Hardy, at 12.00pm on Wednesday, 5 November by the statue of Isambard Kingdom Brunel in Havelock Square, Swindon Town Centre.  Everyone is welcome to come along to hear the inaugural cry from Rob declaring the awards open.

The key dates for the 2026 awards are:

• Nominations open 12pm on Wednesday, 5 November 2025
• Nominations close at 5pm on Friday, 15 December 2025
• Judging takes place on Thursday, 29 January 2026
• Finalists will be invited to the Pride of Swindon Award event at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Swindon on Thursday, 5 March 2026

Plaques celebrating all of the previous award winners can be found in Swindon Central Library.  The 2026 winners will be added following the Awards Ceremony.

For more information and how to nominate an individual or a team please see the Pride of Swindon Award page on the Swindon Borough Council website.