Lucie from MGTH explained that "the aim is to recognise all the local people, businesses and organisations that help make Hitchin and its surrounding villages such a great place for families"

"The response to my announcement has been great, and I have already seen the nominations come rolling in. I would love for you to feature them, so we can really shine a light on Hitchin"

You can find a Reel about the Awards here and images attached.

Nominations opened on Monday 25th November 2024 and close at midnight on December 13th.

Finalists will be chosen for each category based on the number of nominations secured.

People can nominate by completing the Nomination form on their website: 

www.mumsguideto.co.uk/hitchin/awards.php. 

After the shortlisted business have been confirmed, voting will then open from 30th December 2024 – 17th January 2025.

The categories include - 

Best Activity Class or Group for Under 5s

Award for the best activity class or group for children under 5, including parent and toddler groups.

Best Activity Class or Group for School-age Children

Award for the best activity class, group or club for children of school age, either primary or secondary school.

Best Holiday Club or Class

Award for the best club, class or camp that runs during the school holidays for children in any age group.

Best Pre/Post-natal Support Service

Award for the business, individual or organisation that provides the best service for pre or post-natal mothers, and can include anything to do with pregnancy and post-pregnancy, including groups and classes.

Best Lifestyle Service for Parents

Award for the business, individual or organisation that provides the best service of any type (not necessarily child-related) to local parents. The business or service does not have to be exclusively aimed at parents but can simply be one that provides a service that caters for a busy parent's lifestyle.

Best Party and Celebrations Provider

Award for the business or individual that provides the best venue, entertainment or party-related product (e.g. cakes, catering, decorations, tableware).

Most Family-friendly Café/Restaurant

Award for the café or restaurant which caters best for families.

Best Local Shop

Award for the local shop, whether child-related or not, that gives customers extra-special service either by way of the staff, products, facilities and extra services or a combination of all of these.

Best Local Event

Award for the best local event within a distance of 10 miles from the centre of Hitchin that caters for families and children.

Local Volunteer of the Year

Award for a volunteer who goes the extra mile to make our town an amazing place for children and families. (Either the role or the organisation they volunteer for must relate to or benefit children and/or families locally).

Best Local Independent Business

Award for the independent business (not already covered by another category) that provides the best service or product (not necessarily child-related) to local parents.

Best Family Day Out

Award for the attraction that offers best value for money, all round family entertainment, fun whatever the weather or something else to make the day extra special (within a distance of 20 miles from the centre of Hitchin).

For more information and T&Cs please visit http://www.mumsguideto.co.uk/hitchin/awards.php