A record number of entries were received for the new 2026 Gloucestershire Lifestyle & Community Awards, reflecting the county’s passion to celebrate excellence and community spirit, ahead of the celebrated ceremony in May.
The revamped awards, which launched for the first time this year, combine the long-running Lifestyle Awards with a bold new addition on supporting and celebrating community action and volunteering.
More organisations, groups and individuals than before have entered across the expanded set of categories, from established lifestyle sectors such as restaurants, cultural venues and events to newly introduced community-centred accolades like Volunteer of the Year, Fundraiser of the Year and Community Award. The depth and breadth of interest showcases the county’s thriving social fabric and appetite to celebrate those going the extra mile locally.
Entries opened in January and closed mid-February, with organisations able to enter up to three categories via the central awards page on SoGlos.
The surge in submissions this year is a testament to the fresh community focus introduced for 2026, offering a platform for charities, volunteer groups and grassroots initiatives alongside businesses that shape Gloucestershire’s lifestyle scene.
Following the entry stage, votes from the public will contribute to a shortlist, with finalists announced next month and judged by an independent panel drawn from the county’s leading figures across numerous sectors.
The winners will be revealed at the Gloucestershire Lifestyle & Community Awards night on Thursday 21 May 2026 at Pittville Pump Room in Cheltenham.
SoGlos’s managing director, James Fyrne, said: 'The record interest underlines how much local people value recognition for both commercial and community-led achievement. The awards now truly celebrate the diversity that makes Gloucestershire such an inspiring place to live and work.
'Thank you to our headline partners, category partners and venue partner for making these awards such a storming Gloucestershire success.'
To find out more, visit soglos.com/lifestyle-community-awards.
