Outstanding volunteers and organisations have been formally recognised at the Leamington Mayor's Awards, celebrating their exceptional dedication and service to the community.

The Mayor of Royal Leamington Spa, Cllr Ruggy Singh, marked one of his final mayoral duties by presenting the awards said "It gives me great pleasure to present these awards to a number of dedicated individuals whose efforts have helped shape Leamington's growth.

"They are recognised for their ongoing commitment as they continue to enrich our community with their selfless contributions."

The Royal Leamington Spa Mayor's Awards are a long-standing tradition, providing an opportunity to recognise individuals, groups and organisations that make a significant contribution to local life. These awards honour those who give their time and energy not for recognition, but because they genuinely want to make a difference in their communities.

The awards celebrate a wide range of achievements and provide a valuable opportunity to say thank you on behalf of the town.

The Mayor's annual awards for 2026 were presented as follows:

Helen Wilkinson (Wellbeing Officer at SYDNI centre)

Helen Wilkinson joined the SYDNI Centre in 2023 as Wellbeing Officer. In this role, she is responsible for identifying needs within the community, accepting referrals from partner agencies, and providing information, advice, and guidance to individuals.

A key aspect of her work has been the setting up of a Warm Space to support the community with issues arising from the increasing cost of living. SYDNI's Warm Hub continues to thrive due to Helen's ability to seek out and secure funding, as well as her creation of a warm, friendly, inclusive, and welcoming atmosphere for both the volunteer team and those who attend.

Helen has developed strong relationships with other agencies, such as Langar Aid, resulting in SYDNI's Free Food Table being able to offer much more support to those in need.

In addition to the success of the Warm Hub, Helen has set up a range of groups specifically aimed at improving both mental and physical health and wellbeing. These include chair exercise classes for those less physically able, guided meditation sessions, and more recently a befriending service and a conversation group for residents who simply want to chat with someone. These initiatives have had a significant impact on those who use them.

Helen's warm, friendly, and empathetic nature makes her an excellent Wellbeing Officer and a valuable asset to both SYDNI as an organisation and the local community.

Bakeramjit Singh (Founder of the Indian Boys football team)

Bakeramjit Singh has worked tirelessly in local sport for over 50 years.

Born in the Punjab in 1949, coming to Leamington Spa in 1964, Bakeramjit Singh became frustrated at not being allowed to play football due to racism. In defiance of this, and with the blessings of the temple, Bakeramjit Singh founded the Indian Boys football team. In 1965 this went on to become Khalsa, and in 1971 Leamington Khalsa, which, other than Leamington Hibs, has one of the longest histories in the Leamington District Football League.

Khalsa FC has helped hundreds of people of all ages and cultures over the years. Despite all the blood, sweat, and tears, Bakeramjit has remained committed and is still involved in the club today.

His only dream throughout all these years has been for Khalsa to have its own grounds, as it now has two senior teams of regular players and a rapidly growing youth system that welcomes people from all cultures.

Will Ryder (Volunteer at Brunswick Hub and SYDNI Centre)

Will Ryder has been a dedicated volunteer at the Brunswick Hub for several years and also undertakes a number of important roles at the SYDNI Centre, including collecting food supplies for the Warm Hub Free Food Table.

In addition to this, Will regularly supports community events as a steward and has played an active role in fundraising for a range of worthwhile causes. He is also closely involved with both the Dementia Support Group and the Bereavement Support Group, offering practical help and reassurance to those who need it most.

A true community all-rounder, Will contributes significantly to the town through an exceptionally wide range of voluntary activities: From telephone counselling to simply being on hand whenever help is needed, he is someone the community can rely on and nine times out of ten, he is there without hesitation.

Aman Hayer (Promoting Leamington Spa within the Asian music scene)

Aman Hayer, despite coming from one of the smallest wards in the town and achieving global recognition for his music, remains a very humble and down-to-earth Leamingtonian who has discreetly helped to promote donations for good causes.

Over the years, Aman Hayer has established himself as a world-famous musician and is possibly one of the most well-known people from Leamington, despite many people being unaware of his full profile. His drive and enthusiasm helped keep spirits up during the COVID-19 period.

Aman Hayer has firmly put Leamington on the map within the Asian music scene, with influence reaching as far as Dubai, Australia, and Bollywood. He has produced over 25 music albums, including religious works, and has also created music for Indian films.

A number of his music videos have been filmed in his hometown, attracting hundreds of millions of views on YouTube. Many young people have been inspired by him and look up to him as a role model.

Nick Wilkins (Long serving volunteer in Leamington Spa)

Nick Wilkins, together with his wife Cheryl, has worked tirelessly for many causes in the town over a number of years.

Nick Wilkins has volunteered at the night shelter for several years and continues to volunteer and fundraise for the Brunswick Hub. He also supports the SYDNI Centre, assisting with the organisation of the Warm Hub Free Food Table, as well as regularly getting involved in Morrisons charity fundraising drives.

In addition, Nick raises money for Suicide Awareness throughout the year and organises an annual Suicide Awareness music gig.

Claire Darlington (Warwickshire Vision Volunteer)

Claire has dedicated over six years to the residents of Leamington in various roles supporting service users living with sight loss, through the charity Warwickshire Vision.

Claire ensures that partially sighted and blind residents are able to enjoy regular, meaningful social interaction and fun activities, including delivering engaging quizzes.

Claire is also one of the valued Telephone Befrienders. She regularly telephones service users who are living with sight loss and are socially isolated, providing them with something to look forward to and important contact with the outside world. She makes a significant difference in people's lives.