Acts of exceptional bravery, commitment and volunteerism were recognised at a unique event hosted by Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Beth Rowland.

More than 100 people, including awardees of the Mayor’s Honour Awards, their relatives and friends, and representatives from numerous charities and the voluntary sector, joined the celebratory occasion at The Oakwood Centre in Woodley on Tuesday, March 12.

Last August, Councillor Rowland launched the awards and held three rounds of nominations to identify outstanding members and contributors to the community.

Supporting the event, she said: "There were lots of amazing stories to come from this year’s awards and that made it much harder to pick a handful of winners.

"It was lovely to share an evening with them and find out more about the brilliant work they do."

The awards constituted a lapel badge and certificate for individual winners, while group winners received a shield and certificate.

A total of nine individuals were chosen to be recognized from the numerous nominations received.

Reflecting on the nominees, Cllr Rowland highlighted: "Many of the individuals who received an award don’t seek reward for what they do: they simply do it because they want to make the borough better for everyone.

"That in itself is exactly the attitude that can be an inspiration to others to take up volunteering or help someone they know, because small gestures make a big difference and deserve to be recognised."

Among the award winners was 10-year volunteer Alex Baker for his work with Wokingham Libraries; Michael Schult, who encourages more girls to take up football in Wokingham Borough via Laurel Park Football Club and Edward Clee, who has completed an astonishing 23,000 separate jobs for Age UK Berkshire, the Wokingham Borough Council and Wokingham Hospital over the last 20 years.

Others awarded included Freely Fruity, recognised for their contributions to community horticulture, Ojas Ritesh for his bravery in saving his sister while surfboarding and many more who have served the borough with unyielding dedication and passion.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Adrian Mather, a guest at the event, echoed Cllr Rowland's sentiments.

Richard Davies from Woodley Foodbank, the mayor’s charity of the year, delivered a speech emphasising the essence of communal contributions in inspiring and supporting others.

The Mayor’s Honour Awards are open to adults, children and young people and community groups who work, live, study or provide services in the borough.