Black Country Heroes 2024

CATEGORYSPONSORS

CATEGORY&TROPHYSPONSORS

Todaywearegivingyouthechancetoshine aspotlightonthoseunsungheroeswho deservetoberecognisedfortheirhardwork anddetermination.

OurBlackCountryHeroesAwardshonour thosepeopleinourcommunitieswhogo aboveandbeyondtomakeadifference.

Sponsoredby

At the heartofVarloweisour mission: "Specialists In Service." This isn't just astatement; it's apromise. We are not justservice providers; we are specialists committed to delivering excellence. Whether it's CNC machining, welding, fabrication, or any service we offer, our focus is on being experts in everyaspectofwhatwedo.

SPECIALRECOGNITIONAWARD

E&Scelebrates150 yearswithawards

This year marksa momentous milestonefor theExpress& Star as we celebrate 150years of serving, informingand celebrating theBlack Country.

Throughoutthese yearsour commitment to shiningalightonthe remarkable individualsamong us hasnever faltered

In honourofour 150thanniversary,weare continuing oursupport of thoseheroesamongusbysponsoring the Special RecognitionAward at this year’s BlackCountry HeroesAwards.

This isn’tjustany award. It’s atributetothe extraordinary people in our community whorisetothe occasion, dayinand dayout,often withoutthe expectationofrecognitionorreward.

TheBlackCountry is home to countless heroes, each contributing in their unique waytothe fabric of oursociety. Whetherit’sthrough tireless community service, incredible achievements, or acts of bravery-their contributions make theBlackCountry notjusta placetolive, buta placetobeproud of Andwhileeverynominee to the awards rightfully earnsthe titleofa hero,the Special RecognitionAward seekstohonourthose whose excep-

tional effortshavetruly gone above andbeyond. It’s aboutacknowledgingthe unsung heroes whose actions inspireusand thebrave individuals whosecourage upliftsusall

Take this opportunitytohonour thosewho embodythe true spirit of theBlackCountry by nominatingyour localhero.

Varlowe: precision engineering experts

VarloweIndustrialServicesisaWolverhampton-based, family-runengineeringcompany with more than20 yearsofexperience servingclients across theUK.

We offeracomprehensive rangeof services,fromprecision CNCmachiningand codedwelding to specialist pipeworksolutions,steelfabrication, andelectrical services

This expertiseallowsustotackle diverseengineering projects with innovation andanunwaveringcommitment to quality, butbeyondengineering, we aredeeplyinvested in theheart of ourcommunity –the BlackCountry

That’s whywe’re thrilled to be sponsoring theBlack CountryHeroes initiative, particularly theFutureStars category

This category recognises extraordinary young people,aged 21-years-old or under, whohaveshownremarkable progress andgrowthinthe last year

Theirachievements or potentialcan spanany discipline– sports, education, business,orpersonaldevelopment.As afamilybusiness, we understand the importance of nurturingyoung talent

Today’s young people are tomorrow’s engineers, innovators, andleaders

TheBlackCountry Heroes—Future

Starsprogramme shines alight on these exceptionalindividuals,inspiringusand showcasingour region’s bright future

Sponsoring Future Starsalignsperfectly with ourvalues.

We believeinhardwork, dedication, andacommitmenttoexcellence– qualitiesreflected in these young heroes

VarloweIndustrialServicesis proud to supporttheir journeys andcontributetotheir continuedsuccess

Sponsoredby

Varlowe at PatrickGregoryRoad

Theawardswill find localheroes

BLACKCOUNTRYHEROES

Spotlightisonthe heroes for Express&Star’sanniversary

JOHN CORSER john.corser@mnamedia.co.uk

Anew andexciting awards eventislaunched todaytocelebrate150 yearsofthe Express& Star.

BlackCountry Heroes aims to recognise thoseremarkableindividualsand organisationsthathelp to make theregionsuchaspecial placetoliveand work.

It will reward thoseexceptional people whoworksohard, oftenas volunteers,tomakea real difference in ourdiverse anduniquecommunities

Thewinnersinadozen categories will be revealed at an awards dinner thehome of Wolverhampton Wanderers–Molineux–onSeptember23.

Important

TheExpress &Star’snew Editor-in-Chief Mark Drew explained: “Thisisa really importantyearfor theExpress &Starand we wanted to do somethingspecial to reflect that andalso celebratepeoplewho aredoing somuchgood

“The creation of BlackCountry Heroes is agreat wayfor us to do exactlythat.

“Wehopethatour readerswill join in by nominating as many of theremarkableindividuals that areatthe real beatingheart of the BlackCountry as they can.

“Thisamazing region hasso many fantasticpeople, many workingunsungbehindthe scenes,that aregoing above andbeyondtoprovide ahelping hand

Theheadlinesponsorfor Black CountryHeroesisthe Dudley Building Society.

Theawards,the firstsuch‘heroes’awardsthe newspaper has runsince thepre-pandemicyear of 2019, wouldnot be possible withoutsuchsponsorshipand that of allthe category sponsors: Cougar Monitoring,Enablelink, GoughGroup,JJX Logistics, Lovell Homes,Sandwell College, Silvaman Group, Tara Group, Tomato Energy,the University of Wolverhamptonand Varlowe Industrial Services

TheExpress &Staritselfis sponsoring theSpecial Recognition Award.

Each of theawardscategories is designed to find therealheroes of theBlack Countrywho aremakingimportant contributionstoour society

Theyare:Child of Courage Award, Future Star,Young Star,Volunteer of theYear, CommunityChampion,EnvironmentalAward,Fundraiser of theYear, UniformedHero, OutstandingBravery Award, NHSHeroAward andWellbeing andMentalHealthChampion.

“Weare really lookingforward to hearingall of thewinners’ stories on theawardsnight.

“Itisgreat that so many of the BlackCountry’s businesses have come forwardtosponsorthe categories andhelpincelebrating our heroes.”

Thenewspaper itself is thesponsorofthe Special Recognition Award.

It is intended as atribute to the extraordinarypeople in ourcommunity whorise to theoccasion, dayinand dayout,often without

“The Express&Starhas been telling theirstories on adaily basis throughout its150 yearsand it is appropriate forustoshine alight on thecream of thecropthrough this special eventtobeheldatMolineux

theexpectation of anykindofrecognition or reward

Nominationsfor this very special awardand allofthe othercategories canbemadefromtoday online at blackcountryheroes.expressandstar.com

It is hopedthatasmanyreaders as possiblewill join in andhelpto find allthose whodeserverecognition fortheir workin thecommunity or forgoing thatextra mile to help others

ThecategoriesinBlackCountry Heroes have been createdtoreflect people of allagesthatare proving to be an inspiration.

Theclosing date to receivenom-

inationsfor BlackCountry Heroes is June 23

Aseriesoffeaturesrunningin thenewspaper laterthisyearwill be telling thefascinating storyof theExpress &Starand he bigstories it hascoveredover so many decades.

l TheExpress &StarBusiness Awards 2024, whichwill be taking placeatthe University of WolverhamptonatThe HallsonJune13, will also be forminganimportant part of thecelebrationsinthe Wolverhampton-basednewspaper’s 150thanniversary year andwill see thecrowningofthe overall business of theyear.

Dudley BuildingSociety –builda financialfuture

We have been in theBlack Country forover165 yearsofferingsavings accounts, mortgages and financial services

Today, we work to understand what thelocal communityneeds, andwedoour best to deliverserviceswitha humantouch

We understandthatstability is importantwhensecuringyour financialfuture. That’s whywe launched One Year andTwo Year FixedTermBonds,which aresecure andrewarding investment options. With fixedinterestrates forthe term,our bondsprovide astablefoundationfor building your financialobjectives. Whether you’resavingfor aset goal,orsimplyseeking areliableway to grow yourmoney, ourFixed Term Bonds aredesignedwithyou in mind.You canchoosebetween apassbook or an online accounttosuityour needs

To find outmoreabout our

bonds, visitwww.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/savings/personal-savings/bonds

Dudley Building Societythrives on supporting localbusinessesand communityinitiatives. OurBusiness savingsaccounts arecreated to empowerentrepreneurs, offeringattractive interest ratesand personalisedservices. Forclubs andcommunity groups, ourClub &Community savingsaccounts provideasecurespace to nurture the financialgrowthofyourgroup or church.Our branches areconveniently locatedinthe localarea to allowaccountoperations to be efficientlymanaged in person. Visitwww.dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/savings/business-savings to find ourlatestinterestrates and find yournearest localbranch. Beyond financialservices, DudleyBuilding Societyisdeeplycommitted to beingapillar of support in thelocal community. We be-

lieveingivingbackand fostering growth, whichiswhy we actively participatein communityinitiatives andsupport localcauses. Ourrecentefforts werefocused around empowering localpeople with financialresilience, running a financialeducation webinarand donating financialeducation books to localschools, colleges andlibraries. When you choose Dudley Building Society, you’renot just choosing a financialinstitution; you’rechoosing apartner invested in thewell-beingofyourcommunity.Learn more aboutour community involvement by visitingdudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/about-us/ giving-back To getintouch with us, visitone of ourlocal branches in Brierley Hill, Kingswinford,Perton, DudleyorGornalWood.Giveusa call on 01384231414ore-mailuson enquiries@dudleybuildingsociety. co.uk

Youcan find outall abouthow to go about nominating someone forone of thecategoriesin thecentre pages of this special supplement

Molineuxto host nightwhenE&S

Thewinners of allthe categories in theBlack CountryHeroesawards will be revealed at aspecial dinner at Molineux on September 23

Thetwo-course meal will be served for100 people in theSir Jack Hayward Suiteatthe stadium.

As anotherBlackCountry hero astatueofSir Jack stands proudly near to theWolvesground.

TheExpress &Starhopes that as many worthynomineesaspossible will be received by thedeadlineof June 23

Judgingofthe entries– involving oursponsors –will then be taking placeinthe firstweekofJulyand the finalistswill be revealed in the Express&StaronJuly22.

The finalistswill be notified in thesecondweekofJuly.

Allofthemwillbeinvited to attend thedinner alongwiththe sponsors, includingheadlinesponsorDudleyBuilding Society, and special guests

TheExpress &Starhopes to make it arealnight to remember –as so many bignights on thepitch at Molineux have been –andwillbe featuringdetails andthe storiesof allthe winnersinits pages andon thenewspaper’s website straight afterthe awards ceremony

Pleasejoininthisimportant wayofcelebrating thegreat work that people likeour BlackCountry doctorsand nurses, volunteers and community-spirited youngpeople areinvolvedin.

ChiefexecutiveJames Paterson

Thestatue of BlackCountryheroBillyWrightstand proudly outsideMolineuxwhere theheroeswillberevealed

CHILDOFCOURAGEAWARD

As part of itsfull rangeofresidential solutionstopartners as Lovell Partnerships andtothe open market as Lovell Homes, theLovell teamisfully committed to having along-lastingimpact on localcommunities acrossthe West Midlands

The‘We’veGot You’ initiative was launched in 2023 to create ameaningfullegacyinBirmingham.The aimis to help young people with experience of care or homelessness to access training, safe andsecureaccommodation andcareeropportunitieswithinthe construction sector

Lovell started theschemethrough a £20,000 donation to charityStBasils foryoung people to buyessential items or simply paybills. Theteamisalso providingmentorsupport andmatchingsuitablejob opportunitieswithin their construction projects in areas likearchitecture, engineeringand law. Furthering itspassion forcreating atangibledifferencetocommunities, Lovell launched ‘Built By You’ in 2024 alongsideTelford &WrekinCouncil, TelfordCollege andNuplace

COMMUNITYCHAMPIONAWARD

University is proud of city’s community

As oneofthe keypartnersinthe City of Wolverhamptonand widerregion, theUniversity of Wolverhamptonis proudtosupport thenew BlackCountryHeroesAwardsand to sponsorthe CommunityChampioncategory.

Thevaluesthisevent represents, as well as thoselived by theinspirational nominees andwinners, alignexactly with thebeliefs of theUniversity of Wolverhampton.

Ouraim as an institutionistobe able to create opportunitiesthatcan transform lives, whilecontributingto amoreinclusive,productive,and sustainable society –and this is just what ouraward-winnersdotoo

Theroots of theUniversitygoback almost 200years andtheycontinue to influencewho we aretoday –inour character, ourcourses, ourresearch andour knowledge exchange

We valuehighlyour placeinthe city andwider BlackCountry region and have an overriding objectivetomake apositive difference forthe future,for ourstudentsand staff, forour city and region,and forthe nation andglobally

At theheart of ourapproachisthe belief we canachieve so much more when we work in collaboration with others

That is whythisyear, we areproud to sponsorthe BlackCountry Heroes

CommunityChampioncategory, which will go to an individual or agroup that hasgonethe extra mile to better the livesoftheir localcommunity As well as theaward winner we wouldliketocongratulateall those whoare nominated.You areacreditto theBlackCountry andtoyourselves, andwelookforward to celebrating your amazingachievements

BuiltByYou is arecruitment and skillsprogramme that pavesthe way forTelford Collegestudentstoaccess future employment in trades such as carpentry, bricklaying,project managementand civilengineering,with Lovell providingpractical,on-site workexperience andplacements.

Broadersocialimpactprojectsare also underway acrossthe West Midlandsincluding the firstLovell projectsunder thebanner“Hands-onHelp”. From new flooring,kitchen and radiatorsfor theTelford SeaCadets to amoreaccessible outdoorareaat Donnington Wood School,the scheme is anotherexample of how Lovell and itspartnersare having arealimpact on theregion.

We areproud to be partofthe

Lovell’s LocksideschemeinWalsall

TheUniversityofWolverhampton

Sponsoredby

Setting thepace to help mental health

Nowcelebratingour 27th year as specialistsinthe supply chainlogistics, care forour customers, ourstaff andour community hasalwaysbeenone of thecorepillars at JJX.

Nowweare incredibly privileged to be sponsors forthe MentalHealthand WellbeingChampion at theall new BlackCountry HeroesAwards.

We aredelighted to be joined on the judgingpanel by Sandra Vaughan, the chiefexecutive of ourcharity partners BlackCountry MentalHealth.

As operations have continuedto grow over thelastfew yearswithconsecutive record breaking yearsfor our high valueinternational transport solutions, we have continuedtocampaignfor better mental health both internally andwithinour industry

Supporting several national campaigns in 2023 includingthe University of Oxford’s Trucking Livesresearch commission,wetakeeveryopportunity to create positive awarenessand discussionsaroundthe silent disease andrun regularfundraising events throughoutthe calendar year.The latest of whichsaw four of ourteam includingour founderand managing

JJXrunners:Matt, Steve, Ed andJohn Sponsoredby

Collegeis helping to make region special

SandwellCollege proudly sponsors theYoung Star category of this year’s inauguralBlack CountryHeroes.

This extraordinary eventcelebrates theremarkableindividuals whomake this regionspecial andthe exceptional youngpeoplewho define ourunique community.

As thelargestproviderof16-19 studyprogrammesinthe West Midlands, we arecommitted to ensuring that everyyoung personhas theopportunitytoreach theirfullpotential We supportour learners in developing their academic,personaland social skillssotheyare fullyequippedfor future progressiontohighereducation, apprenticeshipsoremployment.

Alongsidedeliveringoutstanding pass ratesand boasting best-in-class facilities,the college’sinspiring team of tutors guidetheir students on their journey.

Sandwell Collegehas formanyyears maintained astrong connection with establishedand leadingorganisations –partneringwiththemtodevelop our students’confidence, experience and career defining opportunities, sothey go on to become awardwinningand successfulalumni, trulytrailblazing in theirindustries.

Dedicated to championing excellence

in educationand celebratingprogress, we positivelywelcome this chance to recognise theefforts of young stars whogoabove andbeyondtoachieve theirgoals, notallowingadversityto deterthemfromtheir dreams

TheBlack CountryHeroesinitiative is agreat exampleofour commitment to supporting andnurturing emerging talent

Sponsoredby WELLBEING&MENTALHEALTHCHAMPIONAWARD

director JohnDonovan runthe LondonLandmarkHalfMarathonraising close to £5,000 forBCMH.

Nowweare on thehuntfor theBlack Country’sveryown mental health hero so whetheryou areanindividualora company, we would love to hear about your storyand how youhavehelped make adifferencefor ourcommunity

SandwellCollege’s Central Campus

CELEBRATINGTHEUNSEEN

HEROESOFTHEBLACKCOUNTRY

NOMINATEYOURLOCALHEROTODAY!

TheBlackCountryisknown foritsrichhistory,vibrant culture,andresilientspirit. However,thetrueessenceof ourcommunityisitspeoplethoseunsungheroeswhomake adifferenceeveryday.It’stime toshineaspotlightonthese remarkableindividualswiththe launchoftheBlackCountry HeroesAwards.

Withatotalof12award categories,theawardsaim torecogniseandcelebrate thecourage,compassion, anddedicationofindividuals acrossvarioussectorsofour community.Thewinnerswill takecentrestageatanaward’s dinnerattheMolineuxStadium whenwewillheartheirincredible stories.

Theseawardsincludeafocus ondeterminedandcourageous youngpeople,thosewhoare activelyinvolvedintheirlocal community,selflessvolunteers, theheroesinourhospitals andarmedforcesandthe remarkablefundraisersthat goaboveandbeyondtoraise moneyforagoodcause.

Theseawardshavebeenmade possiblethankstoheadline sponsors,DudleyBuilding Society,andourcategory sponsorsVarloweIndustrial ServicesLtd,Express&Star, LovellHomes,Wolverhampton University,SandwellCollege,JJX Logistics,TaraGroup,William Gough&SonsLtd,Cougar MonitoringLtd,EnableLinkLtd andSilvaman.

Whocanbenominated?

AnyonewhocallstheBlack Countrytheirhome,andwho demonstratestheeveryday heroismthattoooftengoes unnoticed.

Ifyouknowsomeonewhofits anyoftheawardcategories, someonewhosestorydeserves tobetoldandcelebrated,don’t hesitatetonominatethemfora BlackCountryHeroesAward.

HowCanYouNominate?

Nominatingyourheroiseasy: Visit:blackcountryheroes. expressandstar.com

Selectthecategorythatbest describesyourhero.

Filloutthenominationform withyourhero’sdetailsand explainwhytheydeservethis recognition.

Submittheformbeforethe deadlineofJune23,2024.

Feelfreetonominatemultiple heroesfordifferentcategoriesby completingseparateformsfor eachperson.It’syourchanceto ensurethattheircontributionsdo notgounnoticed.

Ifyouhaveanyquestions orneedassistancewiththe nominationprocess,our dedicatedsupportteamis readytohelpon01902319767. Youcanalsofindtheircontact informationonthewebsite.

Bynominating,yourBlack CountryHeroyou’retaking anactiveroleinhighlighting theverybestofwhatmakes theBlackCountrysounique.

Nominateyourlocalherotoday andlet’scelebratetheheartand soulofourcommunitytogether

Datesforyourdiary:

Closingdateforentries–June23,2024

Finalistsnotifiedtheyhavebeen shortlisted–weekcommencing July1,2024

EveningatTheMolineux

Stadium,Wolverhampton–September26,2024

AWARDCATEGORIES

BLACKCOUNTRYHEROES2024A

FUTURESTARAWARD

SPECIALRECOGNITIONAWA

CHILDOFCOURAGEAWAR

COMMUNITYCHAMPIONA

YOUNGSTARAWARD

WELLBEING&MENTALHEA

VOLUNTEEROFTHEYEARA

UNIFORMEDHEROAWARD

NHSHEROAWARD

ENVIRONMENTALAWARD

4AWARDSCATEGORIES

FUTURESTARAWARD

SPONSOREDBYVARLOWE INDUSTRIALSERVICESLTD

Thisawardrecognisesayoung personaged21orunderwhohas shownprogressionandgrowthinthe last12monthswiththepotentialto achievegreatnessinthefuture.Their achievementorpotentialcanbein anydisciplineorfieldsuchassport, education,businessorpersonalgrowth.

SPECIALRECOGNITIONAWARD SPONSOREDBYEXPRESS&STAR

ChosenbyMarkDrew,Express&Star Editor-in-Chief,thisawardwillbegiven toanindividualorgroupdeserving ofspecialrecognitionwithinthelocal community.

CHILDOFCOURAGEAWARD SPONSOREDBYLOVELLHOMES

Thisawardrecognisesayoungperson aged18orunderwhohasshown incrediblecourageanddetermination inthelast12monthstoovercomea personalchallenge.Thisachievement couldbesomethingtheyhavedonefor themselves,theirfamily,schoolorlocal community.

COMMUNITYCHAMPIONAWARD

SPONSOREDBYWOLVERHAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Thisisanindividualorgroupwho hasservedorinspiredorperformed wonderfullyastheyhavegiven somethingbacktotheircommunity overthecourseoftheyear.Theygo theextramileforthebenefitoftheir community,puttingitonthemapand helpingittoflourish.Theyareatthe heartoftheirlocalcommunity.

YOUNGSTARAWARD

SPONSOREDBYSANDWELL COLLEGE

Thisawardcelebratesayoungperson whohasgoneaboveandbeyond inachievingtheirgoalsinthepast 12months.Thiscouldbeanything frombeinganinspirationtoothers bydedicatingtimeandefforttohelp peopletobeingaleadinglightintheir sportorhobby.Thispersonmayhave facedadversitythroughanaccident orillnessandhascomeoutstronger theotherside.Thisisthechanceto recognisetheirefforts.

WELLBEINGANDMENTAL HEALTHCHAMPIONAWARD

SPONSOREDBYJJXLOGISTICS

Thisawardrecognisesanindividual orgroupthathaspositivelyimpacted mentalhealthandwellbeingintheir

community.Theywillhaveshown anddemonstratedahighlevelof dedicationtomentalhealthandwell beingandwillbeconsideredapositive rolemodelwhohasimprovedthelives ofothers.

VOLUNTEEROFTHEYEARAWARD

SPONSOREDBYTARAGROUP

Thisawardisforsomeonewho regularlyputsothersbefore themselves;someonewhoisgenerous withtheirtimetosupportanindividual orgroup.Thismaybeamemberof societywhotirelesslyworkstoraise moneyforagoodcause.Somepeople dedicatetheirlivestohelpingothers thisway,anditcangounnoticed,it’s notnecessarilyabouttheamountof moneyraised,morethetimegivenby theindividual.Thisistheirchancetobe recognised.

NHSHEROAWARDSPONSOREDBY WILLIAMGOUGH&SONSLTD

Thisawardrecognisesourkeyworkers whoarebasedwithintheNHS.Theywill havegoneaboveandbeyondtheir usualduties,helpingothers,puttingin time,effortandcommitmenttomake ourNHSproud

ENVIRONMENTALAWARD

SPONSOREDBYTOMATOENERGY

Thisawardgoestothosewho dedicatetimeandenergytokeeping theirlocalareacleanandgreen Thiscouldbeorganisinglitterpicks, creatingacommunitygarden, encouragingotherstorecycle,or supportinglocalwildlifeandurban farming.

UNIFORMEDHEROAWARD SPONSOREDBYCOUGAR MONITORINGLTD

Thisawardrecognisesourkeyworkers whoarebasedwithinuniformed services(Police,Fire,Ambulance,HM Forces).Theywillhavegoneabove andbeyondtheirusualduties,helping others,puttingintime,effortand commitmenttodothemselvesandthe regionproud.

OUTSTANDINGBRAVERYAWARD

SPONSOREDBYENABLELINKLTD

Awardedtoanindividualorgroupof peoplewhohasshownoutstanding courage,defianceanddutyintheface ofperceiveddanger,fearordifficulty.

FUNDRAISEROFTHEYEARAWARD SPONSOREDBYSILVAMAN

Awardedtoanindividualorgroupof peoplewhohavegonetheextramileto raisefundsforagoodcause.

Webuildcommunitiesthatputpeoplefirst.

ThroughCameronHomes,ChasetownCivil EngineeringandKeonHomes,TaraGroup offerscustomersaccesstogroundworksand engineering,constructionofaffordablehousing, ExtraCareschemes,andbeautifulprivate developmentsacrosstheEastand WestMidlands.

That’snotall.Wearepassionateaboutgiving backtothecommunitiesweoperateinand donatetime,ourskillsandmoneytoseveral charitiesthroughtheNoelSweeneyFoundation.

UNIFORMEDHEROAWARD

Security monitoring withthe latest tech

Cougar Monitoring Ltd in Cradley Heathboastsone of themosttechnologically advanced centres, capable of providingthe latest innovative monitoring solutionsonthe market today.

We have also invested heavilyin theworld of tomorrow ensuring that we stay aheadofthe smartconnected world

Cougar’s state-of-the-art technology andmonitoringcentre canhandle hundreds of thousandsofconnections seamlessly,ensuringpropertyremains safe andsecure.

In arapidly evolving digitallandscape, security andsafetyare more importantthaneverand Cougar stands at theforefront of technological advancements, providinginnovative monitoringsolutions to ensure theprotection of properties andthe wellbeing of individuals.

Cougar,established in1996,offersa wide rangeofmonitoringand response services that aretailoredtoeachclient’sspecificneeds. From cutting-edge technologytoprofessionalassistance, Cougar investsheavily in providing clientswithinnovativeand inclusive security services

We have afullytrained teamavailable24/7thatensuresthatsecurityincidentsare swiftly andeffectively dealt with Thehighspecification alarmreceivingand monitoring centre allows forrapid response timesand reliable assistance,givingclients thepeace of mind they deserve.

Caring Tara Groupis puttingpeople first

Whilst ‘bricksand mortar’dominatesits business activities,itisTara Group’speoplethatremainthe heartbeat of a firm that is almost half acentury old.

Thefamily-ownedindependentcompany,which includes ChasetownCivil Engineering, CameronHomesand Keon Homes, employsmorethan250 staffacrossits operations that span from groundworkand engineering through to theconstructionofaffordablehousing,Extra Care schemesand beautifulprivate developmentsacross theEastand West Midlands

Recent yearshas seen thegroup grow considerably,eclipsing the £150 million turnover barrierand winning astringofawardsfor performance, the qualityofschemes andbeing a‘Great PlacetoWork’

The‘people first’ approach runs throughoutthe business andencompasses allrecruitment,retention,and training requirements

This culminated with thelaunchof the Tara Academy, a new way for it to continuallyupskill allmembers of staffinthe group.

Everyemployeeworks to adevelopment plan andhas access to 300different learning pathways, including online learning tools, in-personcourses andleadershipand management opportunities.

JulieCaudle, groupdirectorofpeo-

pleand performance, said:“We are delighted to be supporting the Express &Star’sBlack CountryHeroesAwards andcelebrating theregion’samazing volunteers.Peopleand communityare veryimportant to us andshining a lightonthose that do so much forothersisvital.”

Tara also runs theNoelSweeney Foundation,acharity set-up in the memory of itsfounder

Sponsoredby

Cougar Monitoring Ltdboastsone of themosttechnologicallyadvanced centres, capable of providing thelatest innovative

state-of-the-artmonitoring centre can handle hundredsofthousandsof connectionsseamlessly,ensuring property remainssafe and secure.

Tara Groupsupportsafestiveevent

Cougar Monitoring offers security

Groupproud of work in health sector

TheGough Groupisexcitedtoannouncethat it will be sponsoring the NHSHeroAward at the BlackCountry Heroes Awards that aretaking placeatMolineuxin September.

TheBilston-basedgroup is proud to workwithinthe health sector in hospitalsand healthcentres throughoutthe BlackCountry It hascompleted more than 1,000 projects over thepast20years. NHSstaff go above andbeyond theirusualdutiestoensurethat theirpatientsare treated with care, respectand expertise whichisseen by itsteams on adaily basis.

Communities

TheGough Grouphas been tradingand servingcommunities in the BlackCountry since1900 when William Goughset up thebusiness as achurch, school andhouse decorator. It laterbecameWilliam Gough& Sons Limited when William’s children enteredthe business afterWorld WarTwo.

After124 yearsthe groupcontinuewiththe same ethosand culture of employinglocal staffwho aretrained nurtured anddeveloped within thebusinessand workclosely with localcommunities,schools, colleges anduniversitiestoemploy apprenticesand graduatestoensurethatall individualsare encouraged andachieve theirfull poten-

tial.In1969the companyrelocated from Horseley Fields Wolverhamptontoanew base in MoseleyRoad, Bilstontotakeadvantage In alarger site andaccess to theimproved transport network. The finaladditiontothe modern-daygroup arrivedin1992, with thelaunchofWilliam GoughLtd

to specialise in securing andmanagingplanned andreactive maintenancecontractsfor localauthorities andthe educationsector.

This approach hasreapeddividends, helpingincreasethe workforceto100 skilled staffand boostingannualturnover.Growthhas come acrossall divisions, including

construction,refurbishment,dilapidation, decorating andproject management

TheGough Groupislooking forward to hearingabout your personalexperiences of how friends, family,neighboursorevencomplete strangerswithinthe NHShave gone above andbeyondtomakea

difference to you andwho youbelievedeserves specialrecognition fortheir empathy, professionalism andcompassion.

Thesequalities arewhatmake theNHS such aspecial institution andthe prideofsomanyand somethingthateachand everyone of us relies on at some pointinour lives.

Thegroup delivers healthcare sector projects across theWestMidlands Arecently completed paediatric A&Edepartment treatment room

Making adifference withTomatoEnergy

Tomato Energy is proud to be supporting theBlack CountryHeroesAwards event.

We arededicated to helpingcommunities become more sustainable, environmentallyfriendly, andself-sufficientsothe Environmentand Sustainability category is aexcitingone forusassponsors

Tomato Energy’s core objective is to empowerUKcommunities by installing complimentarysolar panels andbattery storagesystems in homes within designated Tomato-enabled areas. This initiative enablesresidents to heat theirhomesaffordablythrough renewableenergysources.

Furthermore, our fixed, lower-cost energy billing structuredirectlyaddresses thepressingissuesofclimate change andthe rising cost of living, significantly impactinghouseholds.

With thenation’scommitmentto achievingnet zero emissionsby2035, initiativeslikeTomatoEnergyplaya pivotal role in realisingbroader environmentalobjectives. We recognise thesignificanceofcommunity-driven solutionsin achievingthisambitious target

Lookingour communitiesand in turn ourplanet, is oneofthe most importantroles we allhave. Together we canmakea real difference andthat

is ourvisionatTomatoEnergy. We look forwardtohearing of allthe innovative andinspiring ways in which ourcommunity is making adifference when it comestolivingand thinking greener. From individualssharing theirideas or communityprojectsthat have savedresourcestoimplementing greentechnologiesorintroducing successfulrecycling or upcyclingschemes, we areheretocelebrate it all!

TomatoEnergyhelps communities

OUTSTANDINGBRAVERYAWARD

Leading theway on recycling of metals

Enablelink Ltdhas been a leader in thescrap metal recyclingindustrysince itsestablishment in 2007.

Specialisinginthe collection,sorting, processing,and recyclingofboth ferrousand non-ferrousmetals, Enablelinkisdedicated to promoting sustainability andresponsible wastemanagementpractices

At thecoreofEnablelink’soperationsisa strong commitmenttoenvironmentalstewardship.The company’s cutting-edge facilities featurea fleetofnew trucks andstate-of-the-art machinery, includingasophisticated fragmentiserplant that canrecycle over 1,000tonnesofmetal perday This advanced technologyallowsEnablelink’s to efficientlyprocess large volumesofscrap metal, maximising metalrecoveryrates andminimising wastegeneration. With this newplant thenon-ferrous metals likecopper, brassand aluminiumthatwould have been lost forever in therecycling process cannow be retrievedand recycled By retrieving these materialsEnablelinkreduces theneedfor mining new resourcesand significantly contributes to theconservationof finite resources. Thesustainable approach to metal recyclingbenefits theenvironment andhelps createa more sustainable future forgenerations to come

Enablelink’s impressive machinery includes twopowerful shears that expertly cutscrap metalintomanageablesizes,aswellas twohigh-capacity balers that compress scrapintodense balesfor easy transportationand recycling.

With itsexpertise,advancedequipment,and dedication to sustainability, Enablelink’s continuestoplayapivotal role in thecirculareconomy

Sponsoredby

FUNDRAISEROFTHEYEARAWARD

Sponsoredby

Silvaman:expertise in UK retail fit-outs

TheSilvamanGroup based in Tipton areproud to be supporting theExpress & Star –Black CountryHeroesAwards2024.

Silvaman recognises these awards providea platform to showcasethe hard work, dedication andthe achievementsoftruly remarkable heroes in ourlocal community.

Theretail fit-outcompany hasa wealth of experience in thesector andisrenownedfor creatingextraordinary retail spacesthatembodythe core brandvaluesand characteristics of clients.

Silvaman deliversadiverse rangeof projects,working closelywithinternational brands includingThe North Face,Timberland, Puma,Vans, Hoka, Uggand Armani.All of these brands continue to workcollaboratively on newretailconcepts, relyingonthe Silvamanteam’sexpertise to deliver As part of itscontinued andplanned growth, thecompany have settledin itsnew officesinTiptonand have employed additional specialistteammembers, enabling thecompany to offera widerscope of workstoclients whilst offering increasedvalue andcontrol over costsand qualitywithinits core deliveryofretailprojects. Over the

past 12 months Silvaman have also embeddedanew management system throughoutthe business to continue providinga seamless experience from conception to completion to theirclients Silvaman continuestogrowits clientbaseand in recent monthsthey have delivered works at varioussites throughoutthe UK

Enablelink directorJoshLong

Silvaman deliveredNorth Face in York