I’ve recently had the great privilege of attending two wonderful events that perfectly capture what makes Bury St Edmunds and West Suffolk so special – the Bury Free Press Community Awards at the historic Guildhall, and the West Suffolk Business Awards at The Apex. Both occasions underlined for me just how proud I am to represent such a dynamic, caring and talented community.

At the Community Awards, we celebrated the people who give their time, energy and compassion to others. From the Jones brothers, who have spent their weekends transforming gardens for elderly neighbours, to the dedicated volunteers of Bury Town Pastors, whose late-night patrols help to keep our town centre safe – each story shared that evening was an example of kindness in action.

Hearing about Lesley Williams, who has devoted more than 60 years to nursing and now continues to support others as a parish nurse, was deeply moving. Likewise, Julie MacLeod at our community radio station RWSfm has worked tirelessly to create a true voice for our community and shows what a difference one person’s dedication can make. These are the individuals who knit the fabric of Bury St Edmunds together – quietly, compassionately, and without expecting recognition.

Each nominee and winner reflected a simple truth: that the strength of our community lies not in grand gestures but in everyday acts of generosity and care. Whether that is organising litter-picks, delivering surplus food, or offering support for survivors of domestic abuse, these are the actions that make our town not only a great place to live, but a community that looks out for one another.

The West Suffolk Business Awards illustrated another aspect of our local community’s strength – our entrepreneurs, innovators and employers. Hosted by BBC’s The Apprentice winner Harpreet Kaur, the evening at The Apex was alive with energy and ambition. The diversity of businesses represented – from small family enterprises to major employers – highlighted how West Suffolk’s economy is powered by creativity, resilience and a genuine sense of place.

It was inspiring to meet people who have built successful ventures while giving back to the community – supporting charities, employing local people, and helping young people take their first steps into work. The My WiSH Charity, celebrating its 30th year, was the evening’s chosen beneficiary and it was wonderful to see local businesses rally behind efforts to raise funds for a new £1.5 million surgical robot at West Suffolk Hospital.

Both events – one celebrating selfless service, the other entrepreneurial success – showed that the heartbeat of Bury St Edmunds lies in its people. Whether through volunteering, innovation or leadership, the common thread is pride in our community and a shared commitment to its future.

I left both evenings inspired, grateful, and even more determined to champion the causes, charities, and businesses that make Bury St Edmunds thrive. Congratulations to every winner, every nominee, and every unsung hero who continues to make West Suffolk a remarkable place to live, work and belong.