Business and community leaders came together last week for the relaunch of the St Neots Initiative.

The independent, community-led organisation is committed to making St Neots a better place to live, work and play.

The event took place at Wyboston Lakes and included representatives from a diverse range of local businesses and charity organisations, as well the new town Sports Assembly and a multitude of young entrepreneurs.

Huntingdon MP Jonathan Djanogly, the Chair of Cambridgeshire County Council, Stephen Ferguson, and the Mayor of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority. Dr Nik Johnson, were also at the event.

Mayor of St Neots, Cllr Ben Pitt, who also attended the event, said the town council were proud to support the group and looked forward to working together.

Chair of the group, Alex Hughes, said: “St Neots Initiative is all about uniting people and asking the right people the right questions to create a force for good.

"The launch event was a game-changer! It brought together a group of individuals who are now activated and fully aware of our vision.

"The next step is to combine everyone's expertise and efforts towards our strategic goals. We firmly believe that our local citizens are the driving force behind change."

Unsung heroes within the St Neots community were also celebrated at the event, with three awards presented on the night.

The Sue Jarrett Award for Services to the Community was won by Chris Charlton for his dedication to the St Neots community. 

The John McDonnell Award was won by Geoff Watts for his life-long voluntary work for St Neots Hockey Club.

The John Davies Award went to Liz Davies, the curator of St Neots Museum.

Membership for St Neots Initiative is now open to all St Neots citizens and organisations. Individual membership is free, with a small fee attached to corporate membership (based on the number of employees within the business).

More information is available at: www.stneotsinitiative.org.uk