UNSUNG heroes of the community were recognised at an awards ceremony.

An audience at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall heard how volunteers were the lifeblood of many of the borough's community groups and centres.

Ellesmere Port and Neston Borough Council community development officer Sarah House said: 'We wanted to thank publicly the people who so selflessly give up their time and use their skills and energy to make these enterprises thrive.' There was a runner-up and a winner in six categories: committee volunteers, fundraising volunteer, new volunteer, young volunteer, parent volunteer and long-serving volunteer.

A Special Recognition Award went to Corrina Thorley, of Elton, who organises activities for adults with learning difficulties, while health walks leader Charles Goble of Little Sutton was runner-up.