This category celebrates a Neighbourhood Watch volunteer who has gone above and beyond to make a difference in their neighbourhood or area. It might be a volunteer that always go the extra mile in your community, a coordinator that has supported you that you want to recognise, or a volunteer that and been an asset to your community.
Winner: Mary Irons – Sussex
Our winner has demonstrated exceptional dedication to Neighbourhood Watch and community safety, receiving recognition for their outstanding contribution across Horsham and Sussex. Through a wide range of leadership roles, they have strengthened communication between residents, Coordinators, Neighbourhood Watch and policing partners, helping to improve processes, support volunteers and enhance community engagement.
They have organised regular meetings between Coordinators and senior police officers, developed guidance and resources, supported new Coordinators, responded to community enquiries and provided vital support to vulnerable residents. Their compassionate approach has included helping individuals experiencing safeguarding concerns and ensuring they received appropriate support and protection.
Beyond their local role, they have contributed to Sussex-wide initiatives, supporting crime prevention campaigns, rural crime activity, recruitment, communications and strategic planning. Their work has helped raise the profile of Neighbourhood Watch, strengthen police partnerships and build a more connected and resilient network of volunteers.
Through their commitment, diplomacy and extraordinary dedication — giving significant personal time to support others — they have made a lasting difference to communities across Sussex and are a truly deserving recipient of special recognition.