CONGRATULATIONS to all the winners of the A Place to be Proud of Awards.

Now in their 12th year, the awards recognise the people who dedicate their time to help make the borough a great place to live.

Of particular note is former Gazette editor Mark Jones, who was presented with the Basingstoke Ambassador Award, having come up with the idea for the awards.

Mark showed how a newspaper can really make a difference in the town it serves.

He launched numerous campaigns whilst editor and helped recognise and celebrate the people who positively contribute to the town.

It came as no surprise that award-winner Mike Wilson and his daughter Ella received a standing ovation when they accepted the Judges’ Special Award.

Mike launched a fundraising campaign in aid of Naomi House Hospice following the death of his five-year-old son Jayden last year.

His strength and determination to focus on something positive during what must be an incredibly difficult time is inspirational.

Mike shared his son’s journey from being diagnosed with a brain tumour to his death last year, and it united the community, encouraging others to hold their own fundraising events in memory of Jayden.

Let’s not forget Dr Keith Thomson - a former anaesthetist at Basingstoke hospital - who has gone above and beyond to help change and save the lives of others.

He is a remarkable man who thoroughly deserved the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Anne Diamond, who hosted the ceremony, said the “best stories” covered on her radio show often come from this area, adding: “It’s like there’s something in the water.”

The Gazette hopes our readers will be inspired by these stories.

–Emily Roberts