Halton Borough Honors Local Women at Queens of Halton Awards
On Thursday, June 27th, 2025, the borough of Halton came together to honor the exceptional achievements of local women at the Queens of Halton Awards. The event, hosted by grassroots charity Fortuna Female Society, took place at the DCBL Stadium in Widnes.
Fortuna Female Society, founded by local councillor Laura Bevan and a team of dedicated volunteers, has been hosting the Queens of Halton Awards for three years now. Despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic, the awards continue to celebrate women from all walks of life who have gone above and beyond to help others and support their communities.
“These awards have continued to grow in popularity each year, and I am always in awe of the incredible nominees from our borough who selflessly make a positive impact in the lives of those around them,” said Laura Bevan, Chair of Fortuna Female Society. “The Queens of Halton Awards are a true testament to what we can achieve when we support and uplift one another.”
The inspiration behind these awards comes from Laura’s work with The Jo Cox Foundation. The values of community and women supporting women, championed by the foundation, continue to shape the event. All winners were independently selected by The Jo Cox Foundation team.
The 2025 Queens of Halton Award Winners are:
– Rising Star (Sponsored by Widnes Vikings Women): Annabelle Thistlewood
– Ray of Light Award (Sponsored by So Nutrition): Paula Cox
– Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Mitchell and Charlesworth Accountants): Amy Doyle
– Community Leader of the Year (Sponsored by Widnes Vikings Foundation): Shelagh Kearney
– Volunteer of the Year (Sponsored by Neil & Barker): Lyn Farrow
– The Jo Cox Make a Difference Award (Sponsored by Anthony’s Travel): Caroline Moss
The evening was expertly hosted by Kirstie Atherton, who added warmth and humor to the event. Guests were greeted with red carpet glamour by the remarkable Maureen Common, a character created by local actor Louise McNulty, and a stunning stilt-walking performer from Alibi Productions.
The entertainment for the evening was provided by talented local singer Becky Williams, and the beautiful floral displays were generously supplied by community enterprise The Wonky Garden.
The 2025 Queens of Halton Awards were a powerful celebration of the remarkable women who make Halton a better place for all. To learn more about the winners and the ongoing work of Fortuna Female Society, please visit fortunafemale.org.
Press Release Distributed by Pressat on Wednesday, July 9th, 2025.
