Dedicated volunteers recognised at awards ceremony

The outstanding dedication of individuals and groups who have selflessly given up their time to help others has been recognised at an awards ceremony.

The nominees of the Royal Borough's inaugural Volunteer Awards nervously attended a special event in Maidenhead Town Hall today to find out if they had won.

Overall there were more than 60 people nominated in categories which included community groups, museums, libraries and school governors.

In her opening speech Christine Bateson, cabinet member for planning and participation, paid tribute to the unsung heroes.

She said: "I was very impressed with the quality of the nominations. We really have had some great examples of volunteering.

Nominations have been accepted since June when the initiative was launched at a special volunteering fair which aimed to encourage more people to give up their spare time to help others.

Each winner received an engraved glass trophy and a certificate.