Heroes don’t always wear capes. Sometimes, they wear wellies.
That’s the spirit behind Northamptonshire’s brand-new ‘Flood & Toast – Resilience and Innovation Community Awards’, launched by the Resilience and Innovation Northants (RAIN) project to shine a light on the everyday heroes who make a difference when the waters rise.
From school pupils planting trees to farmers making space for water, these awards are all about recognising those who quietly but powerfully protect their neighbours, their land and their local environment. Whether it’s rallying communities during flood events, championing natural flood management or simply checking on a vulnerable neighbour, the awards will highlight the resilience and kindness that keeps Northamptonshire strong.
Nominations are open now for residents across the Wootton Brook and Harpers Brook catchments. Categories range from the Flood Action Group Award and Flood Resilient Farmer Award to the Young Resilience Champion and Community Friend Award. And with a People’s Choice category too, everyone who makes a difference can be recognised.
Winners will be revealed at a special afternoon tea ceremony on 4 December at Chester House Estate, hosted by RAIN project manager Sarah Parr alongside guest speaker Mary Long-Dhonau OBE, affectionately known as “Flood Mary”for her national work on flood resilience.
Sarah Parr explained the heart behind the initiative:
“These awards are about more than recognition; they’re a celebration of the heart, energy and collaboration that makes our communities stronger and more flood-resilient. Whether it’s someone checking on vulnerable neighbours, a farmer adapting their land, or a young person planting trees, we want to hear about the people making a real difference in our Northamptonshire catchments.”
The event is being generously supported by partners including Watertight International as overall lead sponsor, alongside category sponsors such as Resilico, Ebsford Environmental and the Environment Agency.
The RAIN Project itself is funded by Defra as part of the £200 million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes, managed by the Environment Agency. Its mission is simple but vital: bringing together local authorities, landowners, schools, communities and residents to develop innovative ways of managing flood risk.
Nominations close Friday 26 September 2025.
To nominate your local flood hero, visit: rainnorthants.co.uk/nominate-your-flood-resilience-hero
Because when it comes to floods, it’s not just about water — it’s about people. And those people deserve a toast.
