A VILLAGE champion has been presented with an award to mark her work for the community.

Irene Gray has been awarded the Chairman’s Medal by Duirham County Council chairman Coun Mac Williams for her sterling service to the community of Pelton Fell, near Chester-le-Street.

Coun Williams said: "As I near the end of my term in office, I am delighted to be able to award the Chairman’s Medal to someone who epitomises just why this award was first set up.

"Everyone I have spoken to tells me that Irene Gray and Pelton Fell go hand-in-hand – a fitting testament to how much she is valued by the people of the village."

Irene has lived in Pelton Fell since she was 19, has always been passionate about helping youngsters and the elderly.

Helped by her daughter Amanda, she set up her own youth club when she realised there was little to do for the young people in the village and continued to run it until she was 67 years old.

When the village’s only church was demolished, Irene helped set up weekly church services in the Brockwell Centre and also formed the Tuesday older persons’ forum which meets for lunch, a chat and a game of bingo.

Coun Williams said: "Irene is an integral part of the Brockwell Centre’s smooth daily running and with a smile on her face helps with everything happening there.

"She’s a real treasure and a shining example to the people of Pelton Fell".