Our History

Cheshire Woman Award has a proud history dating back to 1985, with one clear purpose: to recognise and celebrate exceptional women who make a difference in the world around them.

The very first lunch was a small but meaningful gathering held at Cholmondeley Castle, raising funds for Dr Barnardo’s. From those humble beginnings, it quickly grew into a much-anticipated annual event, hosted for many years at Chester Town Hall. Since 1995, the awards have proudly supported the life-changing work of the NSPCC in Cheshire and Wirral.

Celebrating Unsung Heroines

Nominations are open to women who live, work, or were born within the historic boundaries of Cheshire. This Award is dedicated to celebrating unsung heroines – ordinary women doing extraordinary things.

They come from all walks of life, united by their outstanding professional achievements, personal courage, or tireless service to their communities.

Nominations must be made by someone else, as self-nominations are not accepted.

Since 1985, more than 2,500 women have been nominated and invited to attend this special day – a celebration of quiet strength, resilience, and compassion. Many of these women would never seek the spotlight themselves, which makes this moment of recognition all the more meaningful.

 Over the decades, thanks to generous sponsors and supporters, the awards have also raised over £300,000 to support some of the most vulnerable children in our region through the work of the NSPCC.

How Nominations Work

Cheshire Woman Award Society Committee works year-round to find and celebrate remarkable women. We reach out through local press, media, professional networks, and voluntary organisations to ensure a wide and inspiring range of nominations and each year, we are moved by the stories we receive.

How You Can Support

• Be a sponsor and gain visibility to this prestigious and heartfelt event
• Make a donation to help us create the event. We need to pay for things like the programmes, pre-lunch drinks, wine, and the lunches for our nominees.
•  Advertise in our commemorative programme – a wonderful way to show your support and gain visibility.
•  Donation a raffle prize so we can raise money for our chosen local charity.

The event is organised entirely by volunteers, whose passion, dedication, and enthusiasm ensure that each year’s awards are not just memorable but truly meaningful.

Over the 42 years, we have been able to crown so many women from all walks of life.

Here are a selection of them: