The annual Essex Activity Awards took place on Thursday 4th December, at Hatfield Place, bringing together over 150 shortlisted nominees and invited guests to celebrate the remarkable achievements in physical activity, sport, and wellbeing across the county.
Organised by Active Essex, the annual event highlights and recognises the outstanding contributions made by individuals, communities, schools, clubs, and workplaces that inspire and promote the importance of physical activity and movement in Greater Essex.
Hosted by ITV News Presenter Charlie Frost and Paralympic Gold Medallist Danny Crates, the evening saw awards given out across several categories. While some winners were chosen by a private panel of judges, others were decided through a public vote and the Young Sports Personality of the Year award by a selection of the Active Essex #MoveWithUs Ambassadors, ensuring the community’s voice was heard.
Michelle Agyemang, who helped the Lionesses to an inspirational Euro’s title in July, was crowned Essex Sports Personality of the Year. Unable to attend the evening, in a video sent in for the evening, Michelle explained; “It’s a great privilege to receive this award, especially as somebody that has lived in Essex all of my life. I’m grateful to God for this opportunity, and thankful to all my friends, family and teammates, this couldn’t have been done without them.”
The Unsung Hero award voted for by the public, went to Lee Clark who was recognised for his significant efforts for charity. Despite managing work, family and personal health challenges, Lee runs a mental health walking group, a litter-picking team and a charity football club. Known for the creativity of his approach, Lee gives every spare moment to helping others and to date has raised nearly £500,000 for over 70 charities.
The Inspiring Young Lives award, a new category for this year was awarded to Rosedan Breakfast and After School Club. A vibrant and multicultural club that offers inclusive daily activities, summer programmes, all delivered by nurturing staff. Rosedan helps young people build confidence, creativity and friendships, all whilst encouraging healthy and active lifestyles.
Other categories that celebrated individuals during the ceremony included Young Sports Personality of the Year, awarded to Arsenals Max Dowman, and Move With Us Champion, another new category for this year, acknowledged young people aiming to inspire those around them. The coveted Find Your Active Wellbeing award, given out as part of the Find Your Active: Move for your Mind campaign, went to Sarah Clyne who uses physical activity as a tool to improve residents mental health.
The evening also recognised groups of people striving to make a difference, with awards like Sports Club of the Year and Active Employer of the Year. The Active Education Provider of the Year shined a spotlight on an education setting prioritising sport and physical activity in its setting, with TreeTops Free School coming out as winners.
Active Essex Chair Dr William Bird MBE said: “The Essex Activity Awards shine a spotlight on the incredible energy and commitment that drives physical activity across our county. From grassroots groups to elite performers, and from schools to parks and workplaces, these awards celebrate the people and teams who work tirelessly to create opportunities for everyone. Whether it’s inspiring someone to take their first step into finding their active or coaching the stars of tomorrow, this event recognises those who make movement accessible, enjoyable, and life-changing for our communities.”
A huge congratulations to all winners and highly commended for their outstanding accomplishments. The 2025 category winners are:
- Active Employer of the year, Baker Labels – Brentwood
- Education Provider of the year, Tree Tops Free School – Thurrock
- Find Your Active Wellbeing Award, Sarah Clyne – Tendring
- Inspiring Young Lives, Rosedan Breakfast and After School Club – Harlow
- Move With Us Champion, Ralphie Harvey – Braintree
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Bob McLintock
- Sports Club of the Year, Westcliff Lionesses – Southend
- Sport Personality of the Year, Michelle Agyemang – Thurrock
- Strengthening Communities, ATF Southend – Southend
- Unsung Hero, Lee Clark – Southend
- Young Sports Personality of the Year, Max Dowman – Chelmsford
For more information on the Essex Activity Awards, visit: https://www.activeessex.org/essex-activity-awards-2025/
