WHEN it comes to nurturing community spirit, Jean Proud is in a class of her own.

Now her tireless work in the Weardale village of Ireshopeburn has been rewarded with the presentation of a trophy.

Mrs Proud is only the second person to be honoured by the Weardale Society for what has been described as her "marathon efforts" in working for the community.

As well as being a steward of the local musem and Methodist chapel, she is also a trustee of the Ireshopeburn Literary Institute, running its luncheon club, a Women's Institute stalwart and a member of the High Pennines Horticultural Society.

She has also had to care for her husband, Bill, who has been in poor health for several years.

She said: "I didn't know I had even been nominated for the award. I am absolutely overwhelmed, but very pleased to receive it".

She was presented with an Autumn Mists glass bowl, which is the work of acclaimed glass artist Barry Clark, who lives in Esh Winning.

Mrs Proud takes particular joy in the development of the Weardale Museum, next door to High House Chapel.

Four other people received glass paperweights from the Weardale Society as a reward for their outstanding work in the local community:

Margaret Gibbons, of Eastgate, was presented with the award for her work at the chapel, village hall and "all aspects of village life".

Arthur and Nellie Pratt, of Stanhope, received recognition for having worked together for 50 years, supporting both the Anglican and Methodist churches, local charities and the Stanhope Silver Band.

Jessie Pickering, of Wolsingham, was described as a very modest woman who is the "most kindly of Samaritans to all her neighbours - helping out with the minimum of fuss"