Active Sussex

28th November 2025

A large group shot of all the award winners

The winners of the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2025

Winners announced at the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2025

It was a night of celebration as people from across Sussex came together to recognise the incredible work taking place in the sport and physical activity sector.

More than 120 people attended the Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards, organised by Active Sussex, and which were held at the 1st Central County Ground, Sussex County Cricket Club, in Hove on Thursday, November 27.

The audience heard from inspirational winners, many of whom have faced and overcome many challenges themselves.

It was also a night to celebrate This Girl Can in Sussex, which has been running for the last ten years.

Anthony Statham, the Chief Executive of Active Sussex, said: “The Sussex Sport & Physical Activity Awards 2026 was a truly inspiring evening.

“Celebrating the commitment of individuals and organisations across the county highlights the immense impact sport and physical activity have on community health and wellbeing.

“The stories of dedication and passion shared tonight demonstrate the power of grassroots efforts in ‘getting Sussex moving’ and making a genuine difference in people’s lives. Congratulations to all the worthy winners and nominees.”

Event organiser Ed Bartram added: “It’s always such a positive and uplifting event, and last night was no different.

“The people who are in the room are so inspirational, and the awards are the perfect platform to share their stories and achievements. I’m so pleased that we can pause for an evening and take stock of what an incredible difference they are all making.”

The awards were also a night to celebrate This Girl Can in Sussex, which has been running for the last ten years.

Kate Dale, Sport England’s marketing director, who has led the national campaign, spoke about the huge impact the campaign has had on women’s sport.

Some of the champions behind the campaign locally were invited to stand up and speak about the work they have done to break down barriers for women and were awarded certificates of thanks.

Gemma Finlay-Gray, the Strategic Lead for equality, diversity and inclusion at Active Sussex, said: “We chose to celebrate ten years of This Girl Can in Sussex because this work has never been just a campaign – it has always been about people.

“Over the last decade, every ambassador, champion, partner and story-sharer has helped shift culture, challenge barriers and inspire women and girls across Sussex to move in ways that feel right for them.

“Last night’s awards were a moment of reflection with Kate Dale from Sport England, who leads the national campaign, and an opportunity to thank the incredible women who have shaped this journey, as well as the male allies who stand with us in driving change.

“Together, they are helping make Sussex a place where every woman and girl feels seen, supported and able to be active.”

Active Sussex would like to thank Premier Sport & Leisure for producing the glass awards.

Winners from the night

Active School of the Year – Peacehaven Heights Academy. Presented by Nancy Platts, Sussex Ambassador for Parkrun
Peacehaven Heights Academy was recognised for transforming its PE curriculum after listening to pupil feedback. The school now offers a wider range of sporting opportunities, ensuring every child can find something they enjoy and stay active.

Environmental Sustainability Award – Lewes Golf Club. Presented by Councillor Julia Hilton, deputy leader of Hastings Borough Council
Lewes Golf Club impressed judges with its commitment to sustainability. Situated within the South Downs National Park, the club treats environmental stewardship as central to everything it does—proving that sport can thrive in harmony with nature.

Health Improvement Award – Active Hastings. Presented by Dr Rob Galloway, Emergency Medicine Consultant in Sussex
The Active Hastings team was celebrated for its work tackling health inequalities and supporting residents to lead more active, healthier lives through inclusive community programmes.

Rising Star Award – Max Arnold, Parable Dance CIC. Presented by Darren Evans, Co-Founder of Green Runners
Max stood out as a young leader making an impact through inclusive dance opportunities, championing creativity and movement for all.

Special Recognition Award – Tim Holtam, Brighton Table Tennis Club. Presented by Guy Butters, former pro footballer and Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation Ambassador
Acknowledged for his inspirational leadership, Tim has been instrumental in using table tennis to connect communities and support young people.

Community Engagement Award – The Wave Project Brighton & Sussex. Presented by Angela Glynn, Active Sussex Trustee and Dean of Brighton University
Based on Southwick beach, The Wave Project helps young people improve their wellbeing through surf therapy, using the power of the sea to build confidence and resilience.

Inclusion and Diversity Award – VI Guide & Running Community (Hove Promenade parkrun). Presented by Andy Dalby-Welsh, CEO of Croquet England and Gemma Finlay-Gray, Strategic Relationship Manager for EDI at Active Sussex
Since launching in 2018, this initiative has transformed access to community running for people with sight loss, creating an environment where visually impaired runners are fully supported and included.

Unsung Hero Award – Carol Bates BEM, Crawley Old Girls (COGs). Presented by Darrell Gale Director of Public Health, East Sussex
Carol was honoured for her tireless volunteering and for driving the growth of women’s recreational football. Through COGs, she’s created a welcoming environment for women to play, connect and build confidence, transforming lives both on and off the pitch.

Sports Personality of the Year – Ross Cudmore. Presented by Katie Mintram, Director at Yellowave
A tennis coach from Hastings, Ross is a leading figure in Para Standing Tennis, inspiring others and helping to grow the sport on a national and international scale.

Outstanding Contribution to Sport & Physical Activity – Scott Welch, Brighton & Hove Amateur Boxing Club. Presented by Holly Freeman from Brighton Half Marathon
Scott’s lifelong commitment to inclusive sport has enabled people of all ages and abilities, from children as young as five to older adults living with Parkinson’s, to access boxing. Globally recognised for pioneering adaptive boxing for wheelchair users, his induction into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 2025 marks his legacy of excellence, leadership and service.