Make a Difference Awards 2026 honour local heroes

Community heroes across Surrey and Sussex have been honoured for the extraordinary difference they make to other people's lives at the 15th BBC Make a Difference Awards.

The event, held at Chequer Mead Theatre in East Grinstead, West Sussex, saw awards given in eight categories, including Great Neighbour, Young Hero and Animal.

The accolade celebrates those who go above and beyond, often without recognition, to support others and bring people together.

The awards began in Surrey and Sussex in 2011, and are now run across BBC Local networks.

The Surrey and Sussex winners were selected from thousands of nominations on Tuesday by a panel of judges, including former contestant in The Traitors, Amanda Collier.

Active: Pauline Draper, from Mid Sussex,has spent more than 25 years creating inclusive swimming opportunities for disabled people through the Mid Sussex Marlins Disability Swimming Club.

Drawing on her experience as a paediatric physiotherapist, Pauline has built a supportive community that helps swimmers develop confidence, independence and competitive success, with one young member now targeting a Paralympic future.

Animal: Nathan Harman, from Horsham,dedicates his time to rescuing animals in distress across the area, often responding day and night while balancing a full-time job. Caring for rescued wildlife at home, Nathan's commitment and compassion have helped save countless animals, making him a trusted lifeline for local wildlife.

Community Group: Befriended is recognised for tackling loneliness and isolation among older people in Mid Sussex. The charity has more than 160 volunteers and supports more than 2,600 people through befriending, bereavement support, social activities and community groups.

The charity helps people feel connected, valued and supported during some of life's most difficult moments.

Environmental Award: Rachel Wood is recognised for founding Eco Earlswood in Surrey, bringing people together to support their local environment. Since 2022, she has led projects including community events, litter picks, cycling initiatives and sustainability schemes.

This has helped make Earlswood greener, more connected and more supportive of local businesses and charities.

Fundraiser: Diana Levantine from West Sussex is recognised for more than 30 years of service to the Sussex Snowdrop Trust, supporting children with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

As a co-founder and long-serving unpaid chief executive, Diana has helped secure funding for specialist care and support services, while continuing to raise awareness through her tireless work in the community at the age of 82.

Great Neighbour: Jane Slipper is recognised for more than 45 years of service to Slinfold. She has supported village life through church, youth and community activities, Christmas events and other local initiatives. Her dedication has touched generations of residents, making her a valued source of support, connection and community spirit.

Volunteer: Juliet Fielder, Hastings,wasrecognised for turning her stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis into a powerful awareness campaign. She was diagnosed at 37 despite having never smoked, but Juliet used her story to highlight symptoms, promote early testing and advocate for patients.

Juliet passed away earlier this year but her campaigning legacy continues to help others.

Young Hero: Zac Knight, from Leatherhead,is recognised for raising awareness and funds for Young Epilepsy after being diagnosed with the condition at eight.

Through endurance challenges, including a mammoth journey from Surrey to Manchester on foot and by bike, Zac has raised tens of thousands of pounds and inspired others by showing that epilepsy does not have to limit ambition or achievement.

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