Civic Awards 2026 Offers a Night of #CelebratingYOU on Friday 20 February

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is looking forward to welcoming nominees, guests and community representatives to the Civic Awards 2026 celebration on Friday 20 February. This will be a special evening dedicated to recognising the people who make a real difference across the district.

Hosted by the Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, the awards ceremony will take place at Millbrook Lodge Hotel and will be presented by BBC Radio Ulster’s Connor Phillips.

Following a fantastic response to the public nominations campaign, the Chairperson has extended his thanks to everyone who took the time to nominate individuals and groups. The focus of the campaign has now moved from #CelebratingWHO, which served as a call to action during the nominations phase, to #CelebratingYOU, placing the spotlight firmly on nominees and highlighting the importance of recognising everyday heroes, volunteers and community champions.

The evening will begin with a drinks reception and photography from 6.30pm, offering nominees and guests the opportunity to celebrate and capture memories of the occasion. The awards ceremony and two-course dinner will start promptly at 7pm, as winners are announced across a range of award categories.

Winners have been selected by an independent judging panel comprising of Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, Nicholas McCrickard, Manager, Rural County Down Network, Raquel Rodrigues Keenan from Volunteer Now and Suzanne Rice, the Council’s Corporate Policy and Equality Officer.

As part of the evening, guests will also have the opportunity to support the Chairperson’s chosen charities, The Laurence Trust and the Head Injury Support, through a charity raffle, helping to raise vital funds while celebrating the generosity and spirit that underpin the Civic Awards.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said, “The response to this year’s Civic Awards has been truly heartening. I want to sincerely thank everyone who submitted a nomination. The stories we’ve received reflect the kindness, commitment and community spirit that exists across our district. The Civic Awards night is about celebrating you – the people who go above and beyond every day to make Newry, Mourne and Down a better place for all.”

Further updates and highlights from the evening will be shared across the Council’s social media channels using #CelebratingWHO.