The third annual NFAFA Awards, sponsored by New Forest District Council (NFDC), were held at Appletree Court in Lyndhurst.  Certificates were presented to the winners by Councillor John Penwarden, Chairman of NFDC.

In his speech Councillor Penwarden said, “I would like to thank all those nominated for showing their commitment to accessibility in the New Forest.”

All the Award winners, apart from one, were able to attend the evening to receive their certificates.  The leader of the Council, Barry Rickman, the Chief Executive, Dave Yates, the Vice Chairman, Alexis Macevoy and other councillors were also present.  We were very pleased that this year more members of NFAFA were able to attend and enjoy the evening.  

Once again, members of the public were asked to nominate New Forest organisations who have made them feel particularly welcome and who have made their premises as accessible as possible.  Joan, NFAFA chairman, said “The awards are an opportunity for NFAFA to say ‘thank you’ to these organisations publicly. By winning an award, or even being nominated, we hope that they will realise that their efforts to improve access are very much appreciated.”

All nomination forms submitted were entered into a draw for a bouquet of flowers and we were very pleased that Mrs. Hilda Smith was present to receive her bouquet.

After the ceremony we all enjoyed a finger buffet and a long, social chat.


There were four categories of award this year.  

Winner - W,  Highly Commended - HC 

 TOURISM CATEGORY

Sandy Balls Holiday Centre - W

Bench Cottage, Pennington -  HC

FOOD CATEGORY

Le Blaireau - W

The Angel Inn, Lymington - HC

COMMUNITY CATEGORY

United Reform Church, Open Door cafe - W

Wistaria surgery, Lymington - HC

NFDis New Milton - HC

RETAIL CATEGORY

Woodgreen Community shop - W

Edinburgh Woollen Mill, Ringwood – HC