A MARATHON winner, radio presenters, a Second World War veteran and support workers were given the red carpet treatment for their work for Basildon.

As part of Basildon New Town’s 70th anniversary, Basildon Council and Eastgate Shopping Centre joined together to encourage people to nominate 70 Basildon Heroes who have been instrumental in the development of the new town over the past 70 years.

The awarded heroes include all those who have had a positive impact on the town.

The 70 heroes welcomed at the ceremony included Eamonn Martin who won the London Marathon in 1993, and Don Sheppard, who holds the Legion of Honour for his service on D-Day.

Following the reception, David Burton-Sampson, the Mayor of Basildon said: “Congratulations to all our heroes. Celebrating the people that have made a significant contribution to the original vision for Basildon and played a big part in its development has been the ethos behind 70 Basildon Heroes.

“All the nominations came from our community, which I hope makes their award even more special. When you read the excerpt from the nominations that goes with each photograph, it is clear to see the positive impact and difference our heroes have made to people’s lives.

“I would also like to thank the Eastgate Shopping Centre for being our partners in this project and for celebrating our heroes with an exhibition in their shopping centre.”

Ian Clark, centre manager of Eastgate Shopping Centre, said: “Through our community charter, our aim is to generate tangible benefits for our community through a programme of specific projects and activities, and we were therefore delighted to join with Basildon Council in recognising 70 Basildon Heroes who have made a significant positive contribution to the local community that we are proud to be part of.” Visit bit.ly/2YzOIX5 to find out more about the 70.