Bondholders show backing for community trust’s work

A number of Bondholders have shown their support for the work of Derby County Community Trust by backing its annual awards.

The awards, which recently took place at Derby County’s Pride Park Stadium, saw the trust recognise those who went the extra mile for their community.

The trust is the charitable arm of Derby County – and the awards were attended by first-team manager Paul Warne, as well as Rams legends Roy McFarland and Roger Davies.

Among the winners was Andy Nichols, who signed up to the trust’s Team Talk project in 2021, after struggling with his mental health throughout the Covid pandemic.

Andy was named Participant of the Year for his work with Team Talk and other projects including Dad’s Space and Fit Fans; an initiative that aims to improve the physical health of participants.

Andy recently raised more than £1,000 for the trust by taking part in a sponsored walk through the city.

Other award winners included Sam Redfern, who was named Education Champion, Inclusion Champion Caira McCausland and Zaytouna Primary School, who picked up an award for School of the Year.

Rose Eadson was credited for her work as a volunteer with the trust, while Carly Burns and Lee Fearnley shared the accolade of Employee of the Year.

There was a special mention too for the Rams in Kenya initiative, which is celebrating its 10th year.

Over the past decade, Rams in Kenya has taken over 500 volunteers to Nakuru in Kenya, raising more than £150,000.

That money has been invested in eight partner schools abroad, with 20% also helping contribute to Derby County Community Trust’s programmes here in Derby.

The awards were sponsored by major businesses in the city and county such as Smith Partnership and the University of Derby.

Also among them was Vibrant Accountancy, which sponsored the Community Impact category, which was won by the Rams Family Support Team.

Owner Bev Wakefield said: “The work done by Derby County Community Trust is invaluable; they are making an impact across the city and whole county and, as the owner of a business that supports its community, it was important for us to be involved.

“Derby County Community Trust touch the lives of so many people every year, enhancing life chances, building community pride and inclusivity.”