Our annual volunteer of the year awards returned for the third year running and we’re delighted to announce the 12 very deserving winners.
In partnership with The Marsh Charitable Trust, these awards recognise the exceptional dedication and support that FoodCycle volunteers provide. Whether they’re cooking, hosting, collecting food or pot washing, our incredible team of volunteers keep our community meals running week after week.
A very big thank you to everyone that nominated and participated in the awards.
Below is a list of all our winners, along with a snippet from their nomination.
North East – Gabriella L
FoodCycle Newcastle Benwell
“Gabby always makes other volunteers feel welcome and included in their roles each week. She always knows the right thing to say and what to suggest when someone is in need. The guests love Gabby and miss her when she is not around.”
Midlands – Tyler D
FoodCycle Worcester
“Tyler is a well-loved member of the FoodCycle Worcester team, who always has a big smile and bundles of positive energy. In addition to getting stuck in wherever she is needed at the meal, whether it be hosting, cooking, or washing up, she is also the project’s biggest hypeman and is always leafletting and networking to spread the word and encourage people to volunteer or attend as a guest.”
East – Dave P
FoodCycle Milton Keynes Wolverton
“Dave has achieved legendary status at FoodCycle Wolverton due to the unwavering dedication and optimism brings any task he is given. Affectionally referred to as ‘Background Dave’, he can often be spotted wearing rubber gloves and the warmest smile at his sink in the background of the team’s photos.”
South West – Gareth J
FoodCycle Bristol
“Gareth’s experience and leadership is invaluable at FoodCycle Bristol, he has stepped up to ensure many sessions were able to go ahead. Gareth both cooks and hosts, his experience ensures that volunteers feel engaged and supported the minute they walk through the door.”
Wales – Wendy T
FoodCycle Cardiff Ely
“Wendy always makes everyone’s birthday special, with candles, singing and a small gift, which means a lot. She is the heart of our team and has created a kitchen that feels like the Dusty Forge family, with everyone returning week after week.”
East and South East London – Lisa A
FoodCycle London Woolwich
“Lisa is a FOH lead and she is there every week without fail. She is the backbone of the Woolwich site. She is wonderful, a generous spirit.”
North and West London – Leon G
Multiple FoodCycle’s across London
“He is an absolute legend who volunteered for countless hours, in many different locations. He told me he is aiming at volunteering at least once, in every single location in London!”
South London and Coast – Alexander C
FoodCycle Mitcham
“Alec is there every single week, leading and supporting our team with enthusiasm and superb leadership. His dedication to the creation of excellent dishes – on par with restaurant quality – serves to inspire every week, plus ensuring regular volunteers!”
Schools – Duc N
Multiple FoodCycle School meals
“He single handedly keeps many projects running where we have struggled to recruit project leaders. Also to have achieved over 1000 hours volunteering in such a short time is testament to his commitment and reliability.”
North West – Julie Y
FoodCycle Manchester Wythenshawe
“Julie is amazing, so positive and kind. Nothing seems to be too much trouble, she always encourages all the volunteers and gets the best out of people. She deserves an award for all her hard work and being a fantastic team leader.”
Yorkshire & The Humber – Susan L
FoodCycle Leeds Beeston
“Always wants the best for the community and tries to vary the meals. Does a collection around Christmas time with her husbands work to ensure we have a great Christmas meal and raffle.”
Fundraiser of the Year
Guy R – ‘Running in to Christmas’ – On Christmas Eve 2025, Guy completed a 56 mile overnight run, raising over £2,000!
And a huge congratulations to anyone that was nominated – we all think you are soup-er!
