Winner - Ossett Through the Ages (OTTA)
Ossett Through the Ages (OTTA) uses Facebook as a platform to reach around the globe, with a membership currently standing at more than 13,000 people. It offers a safe space where members can share their memories and recollections about bygone times alongside two supporting websites.
It also connects its members with the places and people from the past, as well as reuniting members with old friends, lost family and family they never knew they had. The group also offers visits to local places of interest, takes former pupils back to their school days, and has uncovered previously unknown history about Ossett and Gawthorpe.
OTTA has been instrumental in developing a Blue Plaque trail in Ossett. A QR code trail is also in the pipeline, and funds have been raised by compiling a book on Ossett heritage and using OTTA to promote it.
2nd - Pontefract Community Page
The Pontefract Community Page group works hard to create a digital space for more than 78,000 members who live within or visit Pontefract, to access information about the local community. The group provides information and support to all members, and actively moderate to keep it a safe, welcoming, space for all.
The group allows free local business advertising, free advertising of local events, the sharing of employment opportunities, a directory of community spaces and encouragement of being involved in community projects. This enables the group members to feel a real sense of belonging and improves community involvement.
The online group is active every day of the year and is run entirely by a group of volunteers. It brings new faces into Pontefract, supporting the local economy and increasing the general wellbeing of the community.
3rd - Stanley Residents
Stanley Residents Group was set up to help connect residents to news and issues in their local area. The group does a lot of work locally, it also holds an annual Gala and flower and vegetable show.
The members arrange flowers baskets around the village and are involved in the lovely community gardens and orchard. The Facebook page has over 500 members who are updated regularly on community news as well as providing a voice for local people.
The group do amazing work and the Facebook page is a great platform to spread local news. By promoting community news and activities it raises awareness to the community and actively encourages people to get involved.