THE dedication shown by volunteers and community groups in Bath and North East Somerset to improving the lives of others has been recognised at this year’s B&NES Community Awards.

The winners were announced at a ceremony at The Guildhall in Bath on March 23 where they were applauded for going above and beyond to help others.

The awards organised by Bath & North East Somerset Council and its partners received 86 nominations across five categories for individuals or organisations who make outstanding contributions to the community.

The Beryl Dixon Community Leader of the Year Award for outstanding leadership that advances equality was awarded to Alex Johnson of Nova Sports who has transformed access to sport for disabled children and adults across the South West. Highly commended was Claire Henwood who manages two food pantries for Oasis Hub in Bath.

The Sara Banks Young Volunteer of the Year Award to for an exception young person aged up to 25 years went to Jimmi Browning from Youth Connect South West for making technology accessible to others, and Tom Halford (aged 13), from Time is Precious, a charity founded in memory of the brother he never met.

The Peter Duppa-Miller Parish Award recognising the contribution that parishes make in their local communities was awarded to George Clutton, Parish Clerk at Radstock Town Council and Councillor Malcolm Austwick, Combe Hay Parish Council.

Charity of the Year Award was decided by public vote and awarded to the Ben Saunders Foundation which provides free holidays and respite breaks for families. It was set up by Ben Saunders before he sadly passed away aged 18.

Highly commended were Bath Area Play Project and Bath Mind.

The winner of the Jenny Willson Volunteer of the Year Award for volunteers who also motivate others wished to remain anonymous, and highly commended was awarded to Gill Bottomley who has volunteered for Citizens Advice since 1996.

The chair of the council, Cllr Liz Hardman, also selected a winner for the Chair’s Special Recognition Award which went to Jackie Head for her contributions to the Chew Valley.

Councillor Liz Hardman said: “The nominations for our Community Awards uncovered some incredible stories of how powerful volunteering and community spirit can be. People who choose to give their time, skills and compassion to help others are the heartbeat of our communities.

“I’m delighted to have presented the awards to people who lift others up and make Bath and North East Somerset a stronger, kinder and more connected place to be.”

Becky Somerset, director at community award partner 3SG, said: "The Community Awards is always an exciting event in the civic calendar. It is so important to celebrate the charities and local residents who go above and beyond to help others. A huge congratulations to all of the winners of this year's awards and thank you for the tireless work that you do.

“This event is a powerful reminder of the need for us to support one another and connect with our local community. We can achieve so much when we work together.”