Trowbridge citizens receive town awards at Civic Dinner

Trowbridge’s Mayoral Civic Dinner and Dance returned in 2026, bringing together dignitaries, community leaders, local organisations and residents to celebrate the achievements and community spirit of Trowbridge over the past year.

Hosted by the Mayor of Trowbridge, Cllr Stephen Cooper, the event took place on Saturday, March 28, welcoming guests to an evening of formal dining, entertainment and recognition.

During the proceedings, the Moroccan ambassador Hakim Hajoui, and M. Mohamed Barourou, president of Oujda, one of Trowbridge’s twin conurbations, presented Cllr Cooper with a replica of an ancient gate to the city, which dates back more than 1,000 years.

A spokesperson for Trowbridge Town Council said: “Held in an atmosphere of celebration and civic pride, the evening provided an opportunity not only to reflect on the town’s progress, but also to acknowledge the individuals and organisations whose contributions continue to make a meaningful difference to the local community.”

This year’s dinner supported the mayor’s chosen charity, Mill Street Club, with an impressive total of over £2,900 raised through the evening’s auction and raffle, as well as a kind donation from our twinned town in Germany, Leer.

The town council credited the generosity of attendees, alongside the support of local businesses who donated prizes, saying they played a significant role in achieving this total and will help support the charity’s ongoing work within the community.

Guests were also treated to live entertainment from The Soul Strutters, whose performance “brought energy to the evening and ensured the dance floor remained busy well into the night, adding to the celebratory spirit of the occasion,” the spokesperson said.

Civic presentations Volunteer gardener Ron Lomas with his Lance Allan award for his volunteer work in maintaining the Trowbridge flower bed gardens. (Image: Trevor Porter)

A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Civic Awards, which recognise individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional dedication and service to Trowbridge.

The 2026 Civic Award was presented to Tracy Sullivan and Rob Wall for their invaluable contributions through community service, charitable efforts and acts of outstanding citizenship.

The first recipient of the Lance Allan Award, Ron Lomas, was recognised for demonstrating exceptional commitment, initiative and service to Trowbridge Town Council, while Trevor Heeks received the Mayoral Award in recognition of his contribution to the local community.

In addition, the Town Enhancement Award was presented to Beard and Purcell for The Old Town Hall, recognising their work to enhance and enrich the local environment.

Special thanks are extended to this year’s event sponsors for their valued support, as well as to all those who contributed to organising and delivering a successful evening.

The Mayoral Civic Dinner and Dance continues to be a much-valued tradition in Trowbridge, celebrating community achievement, strengthening local connections and recognising those who go above and beyond to make the town a better place.