COMMUNITY spirited people from Pershore and Evesham were recognised for their hard work when they were presented with awards at Wychavon District Council.

The council held its first Community Recognition Awards at the Civic Centre, in Pershore.

A development from the original sports recognition awards, the new honours celebrate and acknowledge volunteers, community and club leaders, community projects, coaches, athletes and artists who have made an outstanding contribution.

Among the winners in the seven categories were young volunteers Beth Morgan from Pershore and Elizabeth Mustard from Pinvin and volunteer Rose Woolf, from Evesham.

The arts recognition award went to Jane Hordern, from Pershore, while the sporting hero was Thomas Ewins, from Droitwich.

The community project winner was imaGine, based in Evesham, and the Friends of Avon Meadows project, based in Pershore, won the community group award.

The lifetime achievement award was given to Chris Andrews, from Droitwich.

Val Wood, secretary of the Friends of Avon Meadows, said: “There has been a lot of hard work from a lot of people, including members of the community and children.

“We were delighted to get the recognition. It has finished off what has been a really good year.

“Plans for the future include a disabled access to the site. It’s all part of getting access to the countryside.”

Anyone who would like to help out can contact 01386 554235.

Councillor Gerry O’Donnell, chairman of the council, and Coun Richard Morris presented the awards.

Coun Morris, executive board member for community, leisure and culture, said: “It was a pleasure to celebrate those who have contributed so much.

“The high number of nominations received for the awards shows how many wonderful and dedicated people live in the district.”