THERE were two winners from Thurrock at the annual Essex Activity Awards, which recognise remarkable achievements in physical activity, sport, and wellbeing across Essex.

The annual award ceremony brought together more than 150 shortlisted nominees and invited guests to celebrate 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.

Michelle Agyemang, who was born in South Ockendon, was crowned Essex Sports Personality of the Year, following her inspirational journey with the Lionesses this year, winning the Euro's and being named Young Player of the Tournament.

Unable to attend the award ceremony, 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."

There were plenty more reasons for Thurrock to celebrate, after Treetops Free School in Grays won the Active Education Provider of the Year award for its work to transform an unused space at the school into an inclusive gym and community hub.

With support from the Opening Schools Facilities fund and in partnership with local organisation Alt Movement, they transformed an unused minibus garage into a fully equipped inclusive CrossFit gym—creating a space where students of all abilities can take part in adapted fitness sessions that build confidence, improve wellbeing, and have a sense of belonging.

There were a total of 83 nominations for Thurrock this year, with Keiley Noel, a fitness instructor in the borough, also being shortlisted for the Find Your Active Wellbeing Award following her inspirational work that has seen many people overcome mental health struggles, lose weight, gain qualifications, and rediscover the joy in moving.

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Cllr Victoria Holloway, cabinet member for Place and the Environment, said: "Congratulations to the winners, and all of those from across Thurrock that were nominated.

"There are plenty of ways that people can get active in our borough, and hopefully seeing inspirational stories like Michelle's, as well as learning about the fantastic work Treetops does, will act as a catalyst to get more people moving."

To learn more about the winners from across Essex, visit: https://www.activeessex.org/news/nominees-and-distinguished-guests-come-together-to-celebrate-success-at-the-essex-activity-awards/