Charles Sheils Community received the Mid and East Antrim Regional Champion Award at the Live Here Love Here Community Awards on February 19 in Belfast City Hall. The event, hosted by Joe Mahon, recognised groups addressing litter, biodiversity loss, neglected areas and climate change. Partners include the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, ten local councils and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, with management by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.

The group has maintained the grounds of the historic Sheils Houses in Carrickfergus for 27 years. It has more than 80 members and 25 weekly gardening volunteers. Activities cover green space upkeep, biodiversity efforts through tree care, composting and pollinator planting, plus sustainable growing practices. The community also runs wellbeing sessions for older residents and provides school fieldwork and volunteering options.

Cullybackey Community Partnership placed as runner-up. The group conducts year-round planting, tree care, litter collection and creation of green spaces, including a sensory garden. It involves 40 volunteers and collaborates with local schools and youth organisations to support biodiversity and community wellbeing.

Thirteen awards were given, covering regional champions for each council area and special categories for long-term impact, community inclusion and emerging leadership. Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Tyler Hoey, praised the winners' commitment to the historic site and efforts to engage all ages in green space care. Live Here Love Here Manager Lynda Surgenor noted the awards highlight local action against environmental challenges.