Community heroes who go above and beyond to improve the borough have been recognised at the Pride in Basildon Borough Volunteer Awards 2017.

Inspirational volunteers were given prizes across nine categories during a packed ceremony at the Towngate Theatre, Basildon.

The winners were presented with a trophy, certificate of appreciation and prize voucher.

Hollie Smith received the Sunshine Award, which is given to those aged between 11 and 21, for her support and advice to other young people.

Neil Hart received the Community Star Award after securing £345,000 in funding for a new community centre on Kent View Road Recreation Ground.

The Inspirational Role Model Award was given to Aston Avery, for his volunteering at the Gateway 97.8FM community radio station and for his tireless fundraising for charities supporting those with autism.

The Volunteer Fundraiser Award went to Tracy Whitt for her tireless effort in securing more than £200,000 to cover three years funding for charity Blind And Sight Impaired Society.

The Volunteer Project Award went to Basildon Emergency Night Shelter Team and John Snoding picked up the Long Service Award for his 40 years at the Scout Association.

The Voluntary Group of the Year Award went to the Food Ministry Team of St Andrews and Holy Cross for their provision of a community lunch service, as well as their provision of cooked meals for children and their families during school holidays.

Stella Calkin won the Lifetime Achievement award.

She has volunteered for Citizen’s Advice Bureau since 1963.

The winners of each category are put forward for the Tony Guyon Memorial Cup to be crowned overall Volunteer of the Year, named after the member of Basildon Council’s Community Engagement Team who sadly passed away doing the job he loved. This year the cup went to Neil Hart.

Mayor of Basildon, councillor David Harrison, said: “It was humbling to meet volunteers from across the borough who give their free time and expertise to help worthwhile causes, often at a personal cost.

“All volunteers are community heroes and we celebrate their tireless efforts.

“The fact that our borough has so many people dedicated to improving the lives of others is something we are very proud of.

“This year’s Volunteer of the Year has given up countless hours to secure stability for the community and enhance his local neighbourhood, something which Basildon Council actively encourages.

“Vange Community Centre has gone from strength to strength thanks to Neil Hart’s commitment and his efforts really do deserve to be recognised.”?