The milestone was revealed as Vico Homes marked the 15th anniversary of its Love Where You Live Awards, recognising the people and organisations helping tackle isolation, support families, improve neighbourhoods and bring communities together.
The awards ceremony, held at Wakefield Trinity’s Belle Vue Stadium, saw The Well Project crowned Community of the Year, while its volunteer Arnold ‘Arnie’ Newton took home the Community Champion of the Year title.
Based in Normanton, The Well Project was praised for its wide-ranging support, including a foodbank, community meals, youth activities, charity shop and bike library.
The organisation supports hundreds of people every year and has become a vital hub for the local community.
And its impact is reflected in the story of Arnie, who at 75 still volunteers six days a week and has spent more than 15 years supporting people in his community.
This year’s winners showcased the many ways local people are making a difference – from supporting families facing hardship and creating opportunities for young people to improving the environment and bringing neighbours together.
Martyn Shaw, Chief Executive of Vico Homes, said the record turnout demonstrated how much the finalists mean to the communities they serve.
“Wakefield is full of people working tirelessly to build vibrant communities, playing a huge part in making Wakefield a great place to live,” he said.
“Arnie and everyone recognised through this year’s awards represent the very best of our communities. They’re people who give their time, energy and compassion to support others, without expecting anything in return.
“To see a record 34,000 votes cast as we celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Awards shows just how much all our finalists mean to the people around them.
For Arnie, the recognition was a welcome surprise.
“It feels fantastic that so many people voted for me,” he said.
“It’s really appreciated, thank you very much to everybody.”
The Love Where You Live Awards are sponsored by Tivoli, Vico Homes’ grounds maintenance partner, which provides prize funding to help finalists continue their work in local communities.
And with 34,000 votes cast, this year’s awards delivered a powerful reminder of just how much community spirit is alive across Wakefield.
13. Support
The awards, which marked their 15th anniversary this year, recognise the people helping to tackle isolation, support families, improve neighbourhoods and strengthen Vico Homes’ communities. Photo: Vico Homes
14. Votes
A record 34,000 public votes were cast in this year's Love Where You Live Awards as Vico Homes celebrated the volunteers, community groups and local heroes making a difference across Wakefield district. Photo: Vico Homes
15. Support
This year's winners reflected the many different ways communities support one another. From helping people facing hardship and creating opportunities for young people, to improving local environments and bringing neighbours together. Photo: Vico Homes
16. Record number
A record 34,000 public votes were cast in this year's Love Where You Live Awards Photo: Vico Homes