Nominations are now open for the 2026 East Riding Council Chairman’s Awards.
The Chairman’s Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals, businesses and projects that have made a significant impact on communities across the East Riding.
The chairman, Councillor Liam Dealtry, will present the awards at an event on Tuesday, May 12.
The awards celebrate excellence across four categories:
- Community – honouring groups and individuals who have improved the lives of East Riding residents through non-commercial projects.
- Built heritage – celebrating private homes, new builds or business premises that have been sympathetically renovated or restored.
- Business – recognising businesses that have contributed to the economic prosperity of the region.
- Sport – celebrating local talent and dedication to sports clubs and activities.
Cllr Dealtry said: “The Chairman’s Awards are a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best of our community.
“We look forward to celebrating those who go above and beyond to make the East Riding a great place to live and work.”
Katy Smith, winner of the 2025 Community Individual Award, spoke at last year’s event.
She said: “It means the absolute world to us. It’s not just for me, it’s for everybody who’s supported us and everybody who comes along and joins in with our events.”
After losing her eldest son to suicide in 2021, Katy founded Ruben’s Voice to raise awareness and support her community in Hedon. Entirely voluntary, the work is funded through grants, events, donations and recycling schemes. A mother of five, she often works full-time on Ruben’s Voice to help others find hope.
The closing date for nominations is Friday, January 31.
For more information, to view previous winners’ stories and to submit a nomination, visit eastriding.gov.uk/chairmansawards or email [email protected].

