Celebrating Local Legends – Community Champion Awards 2025

Last Friday night, Greenock Town Hall brimmed with pride and applause as the Greenock Telegraph Community Champion Awards returned in spectacular fashion. Held on June 20, 2025, the ceremony—sponsored by Vertu Motors—honoured individuals and groups from across Inverclyde whose everyday efforts make a remarkable difference. The event kicked off at 6.30 pm with a warm welcome and uplifted spirits. Finalists in eleven impactful categories had gathered to celebrate dedication, kindness, and community spirit .

WINNERS:

• Arts Champion of the Year (sponsored by Vertu): The Beacon Creative Recovery

• Business Champion (CCG Homes): Platinum Paving

• Champion Mentor (Diodes Incorporated): Dr Craig Speirs

• Charity Champion (Green Oak Funeral Services): Alex and Christina McAnespie

• Community Champion of the Year (Ardgowan Hospice): Michael Doherty

• Environment Champion (Vango): Bruce Newlands

• Health & Care Champion (Hagan Pharmacy): Moving On Inverclyde

• Heart of Gold (Vertu): Geraldine Blair

• Little Champion (Platinum Paving): Alice Scott, Jon Jai Stanton, Luna McDonald and Niamh McAllister

• Senior Champion (CVS Inverclyde): Alan & Helen Aitken

• Sporting Champion (Willows Fencing): Jorg Gurney

• Youth Champion (St Columba’s School): Max Marner

Hundreds watched as each nominee was embraced for their unique dedication—whether nurturing young minds, protecting the environment, fostering arts, driving local business, or showing everyday acts of heroism. Since 2020, the Telegraph has shone a spotlight on unsung champions. These awards uplift communities, inspire others, and remind us how collective small actions build a brighter Inverclyde.