2026 Short Award

Jeff Teasdale, editor of The Gander, presented Jane Arnott with her cheque and certificate for being chosen as the winner of the community award, now sponsored by The Gander.

The presentation took place at a special awards assembly at Goxhill School, where pupils received awards for doing special things at school. It was particularly appropriate to show that appreciation of those doing good things for others continues on into adult life too.

When the Gander Team opened the ballot boxes and counted up the entries, Gander Editor Jeff Teasdale emerged as the winner. Nominations commended Jeff "for his work for the community as Editor of the Gander, a member of the committee that tried to save the Pub and for his work at the school."

"I am very grateful for all of you who voted for me... But the most important thing is that this should encourage more people to get stuck in too."

Mark Ogilvie was presented with the Short Award at Goxhill School by Vice Chair of Governors, Jeff Teasdale. His initiative setting up the 'Scrap For School Skip' on Westfield Road raised £7,000.07 for local schools in about 2½ years.

"I’m very proud I have received my award today at the school... Special thanks to Ambrose Farrow for their support with the free skips..."

In a typical gesture of generosity, Mark gave away his £50 prize through a draw for villagers who used the skip.

Selected during a committee meeting in May 2020, Emma received widespread support for her extensive work in the village. Her efforts included helping set up GRAG and the Neighbourhood Plan Committee, as well as coordinating the local COVID-19 Mutual Aid Group with over 200 volunteers.

Winning has come as a huge surprise and a great honour. I believe this year's award is recognition for every person who has shown their neighbours care."

Reviewed at the Gander Committee meeting on 16th November, Sam & Lucy England won for establishing the Pop-up Pub, raising over £17k for the Memorial Hall and over £2k for other charities.

"Their dedication and initiative to set up the Pop up Pub. What a great event to bring the community together."

Aileen Hanlon-Bennett and Alyson O’Leary shared a very close joint second place.

Alyson O'Leary won following a vote counted on 16th November. She was celebrated for her long-standing work with the WI, volunteering at the village library since its inception, and creating two book boxes for villagers.

"When we moved here in 1991 we found that we were immediately accepted into the Goxhill Community. So it was just natural to do things for the community"

Janet Shephardson was announced as winner at the meeting on 14th November with by far the most nominations. She was praised for her wide-ranging work with the Parish Church, Churches Together, Food Bank, pop-ins, luncheon club, hospital runs, and home visits.

"Janet is one of the most selfless and kind hearted people I know, who is always willing to help anyone."

Counted on 12th November, Mike Gathercole became the second recipient to receive the Short Award posthumously. He was recognized for founding the Allotments, serving on the Parish Council, acting as a School Governor, helping The Gander, and chairing the Barton Cleethorpes Community Rail Partnership.

"I'm shocked, but delighted. Mike always liked to get jobs done."
— Karen Gathercole (Widow)

Amy Shephardson received the 2025 Short Award following a record response. She was nominated for organizing Christmas toy giveaways, delivering holiday stockings to elderly residents, distributing summer activity packs, collecting winter blankets, and volunteering at school Tumble Tots.

"I am absolutely thrilled to bits, completely shocked. I just like to be nice to people, to support the people of the village."