COMMUNITY stalwarts were recognised at a special service in Wokingham’s town hall.

A total of eight champions who give their time and dedication to worthy causes across the town were given the awards by town mayor Cllr Philip Mirfin at a ceremony on Friday, January 29.

Welcoming the award winners to the ceremony he said: "It’s wonderful to think there are so many people doing such valuable work in the community."

Amongst the award winners were the News’ columnist Colin Antink and two volunteers who work for the town’s poppy appeal.

Edwin Weaver and Sue Lardge were separately nominated and given awards for their invaluable work towards the poppy appeal.

She has helped raise money for the poppy appeal since 1975 and has not only raised funds in that time but helped recruit around 20 others to help the scheme.

Mr Weaver was praised as a "reliable, dedicated and committed" fundraiser known for holding four-hour fundraising sessions at the train station.

Last year he collected nearly a tenth of the total raised, bringing in £3,200 of the £38,000 sum.

Mr Antink was given his award for his work for the Thames Hospice, working in their store until his Stickler syndrome, a hereditary condition impacting his eyesight, hearing and joints, forced him to give up the work.

Other nominees included Mack Hollings, who runs the 3rd Wokingham Scouts, Melanie Allen, who spends numerous hours on causes across the town, including the food festival, winter carnival and cinema club.

Barbara Knee and her husband David both received awards for their tireless work supporting the Bradbury Centre in the methodist church, and supporting other organisations like CLASP who use the service.

Geoff Wilde, who has been the head of governors at St Cripsin’s school for four years, was also nominated both for his work at the school as well as his dedication to the citizens advice service.