The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) announced its Star Council Awards winners at a dazzling ceremony held on 24 February 2026 at the prestigious House of Lords.

The event brought together councillors, clerks, MPs, parliamentarians, academics, national stakeholders and leading opinion formers to honour the individuals and organisations that have demonstrated exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication in supporting their communities.

The night was filled with excitement and anticipation as guests and finalists eagerly awaited the announcement of the winners. The Star Council Awards have become a hallmark occasion for recognising and celebrating the achievements of parish and town councils.

This year's winners stood out among an impressive pool of nominees, showcasing their commitment to excellence and significant contributions to their communities. The esteemed panel of judges had the challenging task of selecting the best of the best.

The ceremony included a speech by our vice-president, Baroness Natalie Bennett of Manor Castle, who highlighted and praised the work of parish and town councils. The evening was a celebration of achievements and an opportunity for the sector to network, collaborate, and inspire one another.

NALC chair, Cllr Iain Hamilton, commented, "Congratulations to all the winners of the Star Council Awards. Your commitment to local governance and to the people you serve is both evident and inspiring. Through inclusive leadership, forward-thinking initiatives and tireless dedication, you have delivered tangible, lasting benefits for your communities. You exemplify the very best of local government: accountable, innovative and rooted in service. Today we recognise not only your achievements, but the integrity, resilience and collaboration that underpin them. Thank you for raising the bar and for demonstrating what effective local democracy looks like in action."

The winners of the Star Council Awards are:

· Council of the Year — Oswestry Town Council in Shropshire

· Councillor of the Year — Cllr Jonathan Dryland, North Cerney Parish Council in Gloucestershire

· Young Councillor of the Year — Cllr Connor Mulhall, Wetherby Town Council in Yorkshire

· Climate Response of the Year — Corsham Town Council in Wiltshire

· County Association of the Year — Gloucestershire Association of Parish and Town Councils

· Clerk of the Year — Sarah Haydon, Biddulph Town Council in Staffordshire

Clear Councils Insurance, Blachere Illumination, CCLA, Cloudy IT, Civic.ly, Unity Trust Bank and Utility Aid sponsor the Star Council Awards.