Community spirit and inspirational acts of kindness were on display at the 16th annual Luton’s Best Awards, an opportunity to recognise individuals and groups who have gone the extra mile to contribute to making the town a better place.
Organised by Love Luton, the glamorous event was held in The Conservatory in the Walled Gardens of the Luton Hoo Estate, with special guests including Mayor Cllr Amy Nicholls, Luton South MP Rachel Hopkins, High Sheriff of Bedfordshire Camilla King, and Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Edward Phillips.
The host was once again former British tennis player and TV and radio broadcaster Andrew Castle, and
Ryebridge Construction sponsored the Child of Courage award, recognising any young person up to the age of 18 who has put themselves in danger to help or save the life of another or has battled against the odds and has overcome adversity in their personal life or made a stand to improve the lot of themselves or others.
The winner was Lacey Hattle, a remarkable young woman whose courage is defined by resilience, grace, and unwavering determination in the face of unimaginable personal tragedy.
Two years after losing her father to suicide, she has channelled her grief into a source of inner strength, demonstrating a maturity and fortitude far beyond her years.
Her commitment to her studies became a testament to her father's memory and a beacon of hope for her own future and this summer, she achieved grade 8s and 9s in her GCSEs, and she has now been awarded a full scholarship to Berkhamsted School.
Her nomination said: “In the wake of a life-altering tragedy, Lacey could have easily become a victim of her circumstances. Instead, she has become a survivor, a scholar, and a true inspiration. Her journey is a powerful reminder that resilience is not about avoiding hardship, but about facing it with unwavering courage and coming out stronger on the other side. She is a true Child of Courage, and I can think of no one more deserving of this award.”
Runner-up was Arisha Muhammad, who excelled academically despite experiencing difficult financial circumstances outside of school, demonstrating daily that courage is not just an abstract quality but a lived reality - an ability to keep moving forward, even when the path is hard.
Ryebridge managing director Sean Scully, who presented the award, said: “There were just so many incredible stories on the night that it’s fair to say a few tears were shed on our table and many others throughout the room.
“That said, the nominees for our own award highlighted the remarkable resilience and determination of a young woman who was dealt a terrible blow at a very young age. Ryebridge is proud to back these awards and stand shoulder to shoulder with the Luton community in recognising what a remarkable town it truly is.”
Linsey Sweet of Love Luton added: “We are delighted to have Ryebridge as one of our platinum sponsors and for their ongoing support. The 16th Luton’s Best awards was another night of huge celebrations and acknowledgement of the amazing people and organisations that do so much for Luton and for going above and beyond.”
Andrew Castle, Lacey Hattle and Sean Scully
