Pride of Reading Awards 2025: Nominate Your Local Heroes Today

13th June 2025

Reading is a town full of incredible people and places—and that’s something worth celebrating. The Pride of Reading Awards, now in their 21st year, are once again shining a light on the individuals, businesses, and community groups who go above and beyond to make Reading a better place to live, work and visit.

From tireless volunteers and inspiring leaders to local businesses that champion excellence, the awards honour the everyday heroes who make Reading the vibrant, caring town it is today.

Know someone amazing? Whether it’s a neighbour, friend, colleague or community organisation, you can help celebrate their efforts by nominating them for an award.

Award Categories for 2025

Awards for Individuals

• Child of Courage (Sponsored by De Vere Wokefield Estate)
  A young person (16 or under) who has shown exceptional bravery in the face of adversity.

• Employee of the Year (Sponsored by Reading Buses)
  An outstanding individual who has made a big difference in the workplace.

• Legacy Award (Sponsored by Vale & West)
  Honouring someone who has made a long-lasting impact on Reading.

• Local Hero (Sponsored by Green Park)
  Someone whose selfless act has brought positive change to their community.

• Neighbourhood Champion (Sponsored by Reading Football Club)
  A community-minded individual improving lives through volunteering or local work.

• The Chris Tarrant Award (Sponsored by The Oracle)
  A special recognition award for someone who lives or works in Reading.

• The Inspiration Award (Sponsored by McDonald’s)
  For those who inspire others through their actions, achievements or attitude.

Awards for Individuals, Groups, Organisations and Businesses

• Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Rabbits Vehicle Hire)
  Recognising business leaders who have shown passion and drive.

• Hospitality Award (Sponsored by Cream Design)
  Celebrating outstanding customer service in Reading’s hospitality sector.

• Putting Reading on the Map (Sponsored by Purple Turtle & Jacobs the Jewellers)
  For those raising the town’s profile locally, nationally or internationally.

• The Green Award (Sponsored by Tomato Energy)
  Honouring eco-friendly initiatives and sustainability champions.

• Volunteer/s of the Year (Sponsored by AB Walker)
  For individuals or teams making a real difference through voluntary work.

Awards for Groups, Organisations and Businesses

• Business in Action (Sponsored by Boyes Turner)
  Recognising firms (large and small) committed to giving back to the community.

• Charity of the Year (Sponsored by Reading Today)
  A local charity that’s made a remarkable impact in partnership with others.

• Community of the Year (Sponsored by Hilton Reading)
  Celebrating neighbourhoods that foster unity and local pride.

• Cultural Contribution (Sponsored by M&G Real Estate)
  Recognising excellence in arts, music, heritage and culture in Reading.

• Great Place to Work (Sponsored by Kingdom Rooms)
  For organisations where employees thrive and feel valued.

• Independent Retailer of the Year (Sponsored by REDA & Reading BID)
  Shining a light on Reading’s top independent shops and businesses.

• School of the Year (Sponsored by Qwerty)
  Celebrating excellence in local education—open to all school types.

• Team of the Year (Sponsored by Cherubs Floral Design)
  For a team that’s gone the extra mile to deliver impact and inspire others.

Let’s celebrate Reading’s best—the people and organisations who make this town so special.

Nominations are open from 16 May - 1 August. Nominate today and help recognise the heart and soul of Reading!