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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has officially launched its Annual Civic Awards 2026, with residents being urged to help shine a spotlight on the people who make a real difference across the district.
Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell is calling on everyone to nominate the individuals and groups who go above and beyond for others as part of this year's #CelebratingWHO campaign.
The awards are designed to celebrate the everyday heroes across the district, from quiet volunteers and community champions to inspiring young people and creative trailblazers whose dedication, kindness and commitment help make the area a stronger, more vibrant place to live.
Nominations open on Monday 5 January and anyone can put forward a nomination by completing the simple online form available on the Council website at newrymournedown.org/chairpersons-civic-awards
Residents, community organisations and elected members are all encouraged to take part.
All successful nominees will be notified during the week commencing Monday 2 February, with winners announced at a special awards ceremony on Friday 20 February 2026. The ceremony will take place at the Millbrook Hotel in Ballynahinch and will be hosted by BBC Radio Ulster personality Connor Phillips.
The evening will bring together nominees, their families, community groups and elected representatives for a celebration of people, pride and place across the district.
Launching the awards, Cllr Campbell said: "The Civic Awards are about recognising the people who quietly and consistently make a difference in our communities. Through the #CelebratingWHO campaign, I encourage everyone to think about who they would like to thank, recognise or celebrate, because everyone has a story worth telling and every community has heroes who deserve to be acknowledged."
Nominations close on Friday 23 January 2026. The Council is encouraging everyone to get involved and help ensure that local people doing extraordinary things receive the recognition they deserve, with further information and reminders being shared across Council social media channels as part of the #CelebratingWHO campaign.
Civic Awards 2026 – Award Categories
- Arts, Culture and Heritage Award - Recognising an individual or group who has made a significant contribution to the arts, local culture or heritage in the district.
- Chairperson’s Special Award - Presented in recognition of outstanding service or special qualities demonstrated by an individual. This award will be selected by the Chairperson from the overall pool of nominees.
- Community Pride Award - Awarded to an individual or group who help make where we live more environmentally friendly and better for nature.
- Fundraising Award - Recognising individuals or groups who have raised significant funds for charities, causes or community projects.
- Human Endeavour Award - Celebrating exceptional dedication, courage, resilience or perseverance, often in the face of challenge or adversity.
- Volunteering Award - Awarded to an individual who makes a notable difference by giving their time voluntarily to support others in the community.
- Youth Impact Award - Recognising an individual under the age of 18 who has made a positive impact through achievement, leadership, creativity or community contribution.
