Tesco community champion honoured by High Sheriff of Rutland and Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland

A community champion was thanked for her countless hours of helping others with a county award and an invite to a prestigious concert.

Emma Hull received an award from the High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Cole, for her outstanding work for the people of Oakham.

The award was “in recognition of the great and valuable services to the community” and followed nominations from several of the groups and organisations she regularly supports in the county.

Emma, who has worked at the town’s branch of Tesco for nearly four years, manages a donation budget for community groups and events, and organises fundraisers.

As well as volunteering weekly with a local dementia group run by Age UK, she also attends monthly support groups for Armed Forces veterans and Parkinson’s.

This is on top of charitable work with Voluntary Action Rutland, Men in Sheds, mental health group Peppers, and Rutland Foodbank. Somehow, Emma also find time to support local schools, her local baptist church and hospital.

Emma also got to attend the prestigious VE Day 80th Anniversary Celebration in London after a nomination from Dr Sarah Furness, the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland.

It was part of a Department for Culture, Media and Sport initiative with local councils.

“I’m absolutely over the moon - winning the award was an incredible moment, but to then be chosen to attend the VE Day concert as well is beyond anything I could have imagined,” Emma said.

“I love my role as community champion and I’m so lucky to have such great support at work to help our fantastic community. This may not seem like much to some, but to me it means everything.”

Emma is currently organising a Community Awareness Day on June 18 which will bring together local charities and support groups outside the Oakham store.

Dr Furness said: “Emma exemplifies the dedication and selflessness that are the foundations of strong communities,” she added.

“Her ongoing involvement with a wide range of local organisations - from support groups and foodbanks to schools and healthcare initiatives - reflects a remarkable commitment to improving the lives of others.

“Her work may often take place behind the scenes, but its positive impact is visible across Rutland.”