A dedicated Neighbourhood Watch volunteer from Horsham has been recognised with a prestigious national award for her contribution to community safety across Sussex.
Mary Irons has been named the winner of the 2026 Neighbourhood Watch Special Recognition Award, celebrating volunteers who go above and beyond to make a positive difference in their communities.
Her achievement was announced by the national Neighbourhood Watch Network on Monday 19 October, placing her among just five award winners recognised across the UK this year.
Mary is the Horsham District representative for Neighbourhood Watch and also serves as Vice Chair for Communications and Events across Sussex.
Her involvement helps support the network of local volunteers working to prevent crime, raise awareness of community safety issues and encourage neighbours to look out for one another.
The national Volunteer Recognition Awards, sponsored by security company ERA, celebrate individuals and groups whose commitment and dedication have made a difference in their local areas.
The awards cover five categories, including crime prevention, innovation and reach, community health and wellbeing, young volunteers and special recognition.
Mary was selected for the Special Recognition Award, one of the scheme's five national categories.
Announcing the winners, the Neighbourhood Watch Network highlighted the importance of recognising the work carried out by volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting safer and more connected communities.
The organisation congratulated Mary alongside Andrew Burton from West Yorkshire, Louise Barton from Staffordshire, Michael Ashurst-Wheeler from London and the Trelewis and Bedlinog District Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in South Wales.
Neighbourhood Watch has been operating in the UK for more than 40 years, initially established to help prevent crime and encourage residents to work together to protect their neighbourhoods.
Its work has since expanded to include reducing the fear of crime, providing community safety advice and supporting residents during emergencies.
Across Horsham district, more than 450 Neighbourhood Watch schemes have been established, each supported by volunteer coordinators who help keep residents informed about local safety concerns.
The organisation also works alongside Sussex Police, local councils and other community partners to share information and encourage residents to report suspicious activity.
Residents interested in finding out more about Neighbourhood Watch or joining a local scheme can visit the national website at www.ourwatch.org.uk or the Horsham District Neighbourhood Watch Association at www.horshamnhw.org.uk.
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