A few Tameside towns hold annual award events to show appreciation for local businesses, charities and community groups who are positive contributors to those towns.

Back in 2017/18/19, Hyde had its own, Pride in Hyde awards, which were halted by Covid in 2020 and the ongoing pandemic in 2021.Time was thought to be right to create a new award scheme that would bring some positivity back to support business and recognise those who contribute to community in the town.

The Excellence in Hyde Awards were born and brought to fruition by a collaboration of a local dance group owner and the town’s largest Facebook group, Hyde Past and Present. Support was forthcoming, in the form of sponsorship from some local businesses, other community organisations and the local MP Jonathan Reynolds.

A series of online polls were created, where people could nominate, in 8 categories, vote for their favourites and comment on why their choices deserved recognition. The organisers made it clear it was not a popularity vote, favouring those with the largest online followings, but would be judged on what the nominees had done to benefit everyone.Three nominees were chosen from each category, to receive certificates of appreciation, at a presentation event, held at Oaklands Hall, Hyde (who were one of the sponsors).

As well as the nominees receiving certificates, the sponsors picked one from each category, to receive a beautiful crystal glass trophy, supplied by Hetts Fishing and Trophy Shop (another of the sponsors).The category winners were presented with their trophies by the Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Mujahid Khan. The event was also covered by two Bangladeshi TV channels in news reports the following day.

The event was also covered by other local media outlets. The organisers hope this will now become established as an annual event, that will become a prestigious prize for Hyde businesses, charities and community groups.

A full list of award recipients can be found on the Excellence in Hyde Facebook event page, along with more photos from the night.

Credit to Paul Williams, who was officially photographer at the event.

Andy Richardson