VOLUNTEERS from across Darlington have been recognised for their work in the community.

This week, Darlington Football Club hosted the Darlington CVS Volunteering Awards.

The ceremony was hosted by Peter Barron, Editor of The Northern Echo, and the guest of honour was paralympic athlete Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson.

Mr Barron said: "This is the fourth year the awards have been staged and each year the judges have all commented on the quality of the nominations and how difficult it has been to choose winners and this year is no different.

"We often ask how do you place a value on the importance of volunteering? It's impossible.

"But without those who give up their time and energy to help others, the world would be an infinitely poorer place."

Dame Tanni said her career would have not been so successful without volunteers.

Volunteer of the Year was 18-year-old James Deane, from the Albert Hill area of Darlington.

He has been working with other youngsters on environmental schemes in his neighbourhood