Buckinghamshire hotel shares heartwarming nominations as ‘local hero’ deadline approaches
“When we launched this competition with Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, we wanted to give people the chance to thank someone whose kindness might otherwise go unrecognised”
With nominations closing this Friday (30th October), a luxury Buckinghamshire hotel is calling for final entries in its search for a local hero, after receiving countless heartwarming stories of people making a difference to those around them.
Horwood House, an award-winning, 4-star country house hotel and conference venue in Little Horwood, near Milton Keynes, has teamed up with Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to reward an unsung community champion with a luxury overnight stay and a family trip to the pantomime.
The competition, which invites the public to nominate someone whose kindness deserves recognition, has uncovered moving stories of generosity and support. While the nominees remain anonymous, the hotel has shared a glimpse into some of the submissions received so far:
● Turning loss into hope: One father has been nominated for raising nearly £50,000 for a charity supporting local young people through a fundraising venture created in his son’s memory. His efforts help fund counselling, support for those facing homelessness, and a welcoming place to enjoy a hot meal.
● Making the arts accessible: Another nomination celebrates the founder of a performing arts club for children and adults with additional needs. Through weekly classes and holiday workshops, she creates opportunities for people across the county to take part, while taking the time to understand each person’s individual needs.
● Keeping adventures alive: A Scout volunteer has been recognised for giving up evenings and weekends to keep groups running. Whether supporting leaders or stepping into other roles when help is needed, he works to ensure young people do not miss out on activities.
Commenting on the nominations, Caroline Morrone, General Manager at Horwood House, said: “When we launched this competition with Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, we wanted to give people the chance to thank someone whose kindness might otherwise go unrecognised. Reading these stories has been a lovely reminder of how much people do for others, often without realising the difference they make.
“From fundraising in a loved one’s memory to ensuring people have access to meaningful activities, every nomination tells us why someone is special. There is still time to put your own local hero forward and give them their moment in the spotlight.”
Nominations close at 11.59pm on Friday, 30th October and can be made for anyone aged 18 or over who lives, works or volunteers in Buckinghamshire. A judging panel will choose the winner, who will receive an overnight family stay for two adults and two children at Horwood House, and a family ticket for four to see Sleeping Beauty at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre.
The hotel stay includes a welcome drink, afternoon tea, a £30 per person dinner allowance, a 50-minute beauty treatment with a £10 per person credit to spend, full breakfast and spa access from midday.
The two parts of the prize can be enjoyed separately. The theatre ticket is valid for selected performances on 2nd or 3rd January 2027, at 1pm or 5.30pm, while the hotel stay can be booked within six months of the winner being announced, subject to availability.
To enter someone deserving or learn more, visit: https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/local-hero.html.
For more information on Horwood House Hotel, visit https://www.horwoodhouse.co.uk/. Or for more information on Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, visit https://www.aylesbury-theatre.co.uk/.