UNSUNG heroes from across Redcar and Cleveland have been honoured at an awards ceremony.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council Mayor, Councillor Vilma Collins, made the presentations for the annual Community Achievement Awards at the council chamber, in Eston, last week.

The recipients were nominated by the councillors for their work in the community.

Coun Collins said: "Everyone agrees that these awards are an excellent way of congratulating people for all their hard work put in on behalf of others."

The winners included Glynis Beckwith, of Brotton, who plants bulbs, trees and shrubs and raises funds for Christmas lights with the Blooming Lights Committee; Joan Buckley, of Redcar, organiser of the Friendship Club at Larkswood Community Centre, and Norman Evans, a disabled fundraiser who busks on Redcar High Street.

David Reed, of Redcar, was recognised for his volunteer work at West Redcar Youth Centre, his involvement in setting up the town's Youth Action Group and as treasurer of Newcomen Ward Community Forum - even though he is only 21.

Secretary Pat Jorgensen and the members of the committee of Change (Carlin How Against Neglected General Environments) were rewarded for their work in attracting money, improvements and better services for the tiny village.

Guisborough Salvation Army volunteers were awarded for their important role in reflecting the town's history and culture while Jim and Jean Hart were recognised for raising thousands of pounds by selling Royal British Legion poppies.

Robert Brownbridge, of New Marske, captain of New Marske Boys' Brigade and Kathleen Cuthbert, of Brotton, who has worked with Brownies and Guides in the village for 13 years were also rewarded.

Betty Jones, of Loftus, and her late husband, Derek, were recognised for their involvement in the Scout movement, voluntary work and for hosting the East Crescent Residents' Group. Martin and Debbie Neal, of Redcar, were praised for running the Katie Trust, in memory of their six-year-old daughter, who died of cancer.

Tony and Cathy Lynn, of Saltburn, and Olwyn Peters and Colin Shore, both from Eston, were recognised for their community work.