This year's judges

Theodore Agnew
"I think it’s important that people nominate worthy causes because very often the people who do this stuff are unsung heroes and people aren’t aware they are doing it.
“People also aren’t aware that they could do things like that themselves. It’s fundamental to me that these awards inspire more people to get involved in the voluntary sector.”

Carol Bundock
"When people finish school and leave prize-giving ceremonies behind, there aren’t many occasions they are asked to stand on stage in recognition of their efforts, but I think it’s very important to recognise the good work people do in their communities because they are part of what makes Norfolk tick.
“I had some of the judges of the awards on Radio Norfolk to talk about the event recently, and when I commented that there weren’t any women judges and there ought to be, they invited me to get involved, which I was very pleased about, because I think I’ll be able to give a different perspective on what sort of people should get awards.
“I’ll be looking for people who really make a difference, maybe by doing something that seems small but actually has a big impact.”

Daniel Cox
“There are so many people who are doing fantastic work across the county and we need to be able to recognise the work they are doing – many are unsung heroes.
“In my years as Leader of Norfolk County Council I have met some amazing people carrying out amazing work. They help improve social cohesion and are important in helping, supporting and mentoring others. They really make the county work. The aim of these awards is to highlight the work of individuals, fund raisers and voluntary and community groups.
“The categories cover a huge spectrum of areas that help make the county special.
“We are looking for outstanding achievements and people that have provided inspiration to other people - those who have really made a difference within.”

Phil Gormley

More about Phil Gormley (Coming Soon)

Richard Jewson
“People sometimes say that volunteering is dying, but I do not find that at all. I think volunteering is alive and well, and it is an important part of the DNA that runs through the whole of Norfolk.
“I know there are lots of wonderful people out there and identifying some of them for the awards is something I am really looking forward to being a part of.”
He added: “Selflessness is one of the key things I will be looking for, people thinking, ‘I am part of the human family and I want to do something to help others’.
“That sort of thing always impresses me.
“It is so heart-warming in a world that often has dark patches.”

Graham James
“We have often cherished Norfolk because of its big skies, the Broads, the glorious churches and the coastline.
“But, actually, what makes Norfolk important is the people who live in it and the people who serve its communities.
“One of the reasons the community foundation is involved with this is because we support a host of voluntary organisations and community groups and one of the things I have always been convinced about is that the quality of Norfolk life depends on the people who live here and we want to celebrate that across a whole variety of categories.
“I’m delighted we have got the Norfolk People of the Year Awards and I think the readers of the EDP will respond to it with an enormous amount of support.”

Peter Waters
“We all know that Norfolk is the best place to live in the country, but what makes it really special is its people.
“The aim of the awards is to highlight the invaluable work of individuals, fundraisers, voluntary workers and community groups, whose selfless efforts help improve the overall quality of life in the county as well as showcasing some significant contributions to our overall sense of well-being.”