April 16, 2013 11.25 am This story is over 146 months old

City firm gets Lincoln Civic Award accolade

IMPressive award: An events firm based just outside Lincoln has been awarded the 2013 Civic Award.
Lincoln Mayor Councillor Karen Lee presents the Lincoln Civic Award to Running Imp International’s directors (third and fourth from left) Caroline Birkin and Chris Illsley, surrounded by other members of the Lincoln Civic party, Running Imp staff, and representatatives of the Lincoln Civic Award trustees and former winner The Rotary Club of Lincoln Colonia.

Lincoln-based event memorabilia firm Running Imp International is the 2013 winner of the Lincoln Civic Award.

The Whisby Way firm, which creates various memorabilia from trophies to mugs, and event items such as official bibs and banners, will celebrate its 25th anniversary this month too.

On April 18, the firm will be presented with the Civic Award by Mayor of Lincoln Councillor Karen Lee at Lincoln Guildhall.

The 19 inch Lincoln Civic Award

The 19-inch Lincoln Civic Award

The prestigious silver accolade is awarded to a firm or individual each year to mark their achievements that have also bought credit to the city.

The Civic Award is crafted like an eight-sided obelisk, and stands at 19 inches high.

Lincoln Mayor Councillor Karen Lee presents the Lincoln Civic Award to Running Imp International’s directors Caroline Birkin and Chris Illsley.

Lincoln Mayor Councillor Karen Lee presents the Lincoln Civic Award to Running Imp International’s directors Caroline Birkin and Chris Illsley.

Running Imp Chief Executive Chris Illsley said: “It was a fantastic surprise to learn we had won the Lincoln Civic Award and it is extra special to be receiving this in our 25th anniversary year.

“We see it as a tremendous honour and something which is appreciated by everyone for us.

“It reflects the continued hard work and dedication of our staff and the fact that they are also committed to putting something back into society, by doing their bit to raise money for good causes.”

He also announced that Olympic Silver Medallist Steve Cram MBE will officially launch Running Imp’s new premises, Jubilee House, at a ceremony on May 14.

Lincoln Civic Award Trustees Chairman Richard Vigar said: “This is an absolutely magnificent award and Running Imp is an outstanding and worthy winner.

“The company was nominated because of its amazing support for various community projects during its 25 years in business.

“Not only has it built up a successful business since starting out in 1988, creating various employment opportunities, it also supports many projects every year.”

Running Imp International joins a number of individuals, organisations and businesses, which have been presented with the Civic Award, including Lincoln City Football Club, the Lincolnshire Echo, sports presenter John Inverdale, the Rotary Club of Lincoln Colonia and the University of Lincoln.