PGL and Regatta Great Outdoors join together for the inaugural PGL and Regatta Hero Awards
PGL, the UK’s biggest outdoor education provider and Regatta Great Outdoors celebrate remarkable individuals who go above and beyond.
With many inspiring people nominated by their friends, colleagues and family across our four award categories including The Young Hero, The Education Hero, The Community Hero and The Family Hero, our panel were moved by the stories shared. Let’s meet our winners from the PGL and Regatta Hero Awards:
The Young Hero: Sophie Britton, aged 11
Sophie is a dedicated and compassionate helper who makes a positive difference to her Rainbows group each week through her kindness, encouragement, and commitment. She takes the time to support each girl, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and confident to participate. Although she has faced her own challenges, Sophie has shown impressive personal growth through her volunteering, gradually becoming more confident in her interactions with her peers and the leadership team. Her patience, empathy, and selflessness make her a reliable role model, and her contribution has had a lasting impact on the unit.
The Education Hero: Will Aitken, Accrington Academy
Will is a highly dedicated educator who is committed to broadening students’ horizons beyond the classroom through a wide range of enriching experiences. Each year, he organises and leads school residential trips for every year group, demonstrating exceptional commitment and care. He prioritises inclusion by creating opportunities for all students, including study-focused trips to build confidence before exams, and works hard to secure funding so that financial circumstances are never a barrier. Actively involved in every trip, Will leads by example – encouraging students to challenge themselves, supporting them in achieving their goals, and fostering a positive, inclusive environment. His passion for student wellbeing, development, and opportunity makes a lasting difference to both pupils and staff at Accrington Academy.
The Community Hero: Angus Robb, 6th Forfar Cubs
Angus has devoted over 35 years to volunteering within his local community across a wide range of organisations. From supporting his local rugby club and scout group to volunteering in schools, coordinating charity events, fundraising for Guide Dogs, and helping deliver outdoor opportunities, he has consistently given his time and energy to support others. He has also enabled countless young people to build confidence and create lasting memories by organising and leading adventure experiences. Through his remarkable dedication, Angus has inspired and supported generations of young people, earning recognition as a true community hero whose contributions continue to shape and strengthen the future.
The Family Hero: Nicola P
Nicola is a resilient and inspiring individual who exemplifies strength, determination, and selflessness. During a special PGL family break, she encouraged her children to step outside their comfort zones while also leading by example, inspiring other families with her positivity and willingness to take part in every activity. Shortly after the family break, she faced a life-changing stroke that left her paralysed and unable to speak, yet through months of intensive rehabilitation, she made an extraordinary recovery – regaining her independence and continuing to push herself despite ongoing challenges. Her unwavering commitment to her family, combined with her courage and refusal to give up, has had a profound impact on those around her, making her a truly deserving and inspiring hero.
As a celebration of their remarkable achievement, each winner will receive a certificate, a PGL Kids’ Camp or Family Break, and a gift voucher courtesy of Regatta.
Our partnership
For a second year in a row, we’re teaming up with Regatta as our Official Outdoor Kit Partner to help even more young people and families experience outdoor adventure, accessing high-quality kit at an affordable price.
Find out more: Regatta X PGL
What’s next?
We’ll be bringing The PGL and Regatta Hero Awards back next year to celebrate even more incredible people. For now, thank you to everyone who nominated, supported, or shared a story with us, and thank you to our heroes Sophie, Will, Angus and Nicola for being an inspiration to all.
