Hundreds of people gathered to celebrate Cumbria’s diversity and inclusion.
Now in its eighth year, the Diverse Cumbria Awards recognises individuals and organisations working to make the region a more inclusive and
representative place for everyone.
The event, at Carlisle Racecourse, was hosted by Phil Laycock, consultant with Enterprising Cumbria and ambassador for BPIC.
“The Diverse Cumbria Awards aren’t about ticking boxes,” said Ben Vollans, founder of the Diverse Cumbria Awards.
”They’re about celebrating real people doing real work in communities across the county, often without any recognition.
“We’re proud to give them a moment in the spotlight, and even prouder that this event continues to grow, evolve, and stay rooted in what actually matters: impact, representation, and community.”
Diverse Cumbria Awards 2025 winners
- Business Champion: Willow of Millom CIC
- Diversity Event: The Freedom Project. Special Mention: Cumbria Music Hub & Amasing
- Educational Champion: Nathan Ball
- Organisation Champion: Penrith Pumas. Special Mention: Age Friendly South Lakeland
- Positive Role Model: Laura Earl, The Hiking Household. Special Mention: Jamie Hooper
- Positive Young Person: Oliver Wightman. Rising Star: Elizabeth Cooper
- Public Sector Champion: PCSO Peter Nichol
- Volunteer Champion: Lisa Steele. Special Mention: Melanie Dixon
- Lifetime Achievement Awards: Ron Richardson and Teresa Mulholland
