Halstead Empire theatre recognised with volunteer award

Sport and volunteering groups and individuals were celebrated at the Braintree District Volunteer and Active Braintree Awards.

The awards, sponsored by Braintree Village, recognise the efforts of those who give their time to help our communities to be better and healthier places to live, work and play.

A total of 11 awards were given out on the evening at Maltings Academy in Witham.

The Empire Trust was crowned Volunteer Group of the Year, which comes just days after the theatre suffered a break-in.

Police say the incident caused "extensive damage", with part of the entrance now boarded up and a police investigation launched.

Following the incident, a GoFundMe page has been set up, which has seen more than £2,000 raised in just days.

The award comes less than a week after the theatre was broken into (Image: Jo Collis)

On the win, chairman of the Empire Theatre Trust, Jo Collis said: "We are thrilled to have won Volunteer Group of the Year at the awards ceremony."

"It means so much to us just to be nominated and after the break in it was a well-needed boost to morale and gave all the volunteers the recognition that they deserve.

"They are the beating heart of the Empire Theatre and without their hard work and dedication none of this would be possible."

Other awards given out at the event included Sports or Physical Activity Club of the Year which was jointly awarded to Gosfield Pickleball Club and The Martial Arts Centre.

Volunteer of the Year award went to Paul Eldridge from Valley Green Football Club, for his work tirelessly supporting local football over the years.

Braintree Councillor responsible for supporting communities Mary Cunningham added: “It was a difficult task narrowing down the winners, there are so many inspiring people in the district.”

“Congratulations to all the winners and highly commended.”