VOLUNTEERS in Castle Point were congratulated for their hard work during an awards ceremony.

The Castle Point Association of Voluntary Services held the ceremony for their 170 hardworking volunteers.

Participants were congratulated for their work during the event, at the Hollywood Function Rooms, in Shipwrights Drive, Thundersley, with afternoon tea.

Volunteers who have given more than three years of service were also presented with a gift by deputy mayor, Andrew Sheldon.

Ann Gill, volunteer support and development manager, said: “The value of our volunteers cannot be underestimated and it is a pleasure to be able to demonstrate just how much we appreciate them.

“By donating their time they are making a difference to someone’s life and that level of kindness deserves to be recognised and rewarded.”

CAVS provide a number of voluntary services in the Castle Point, Basildon, Rayleigh and Rochford areas.