THE men and women behind some of Knutsford's best community events have been heralded at the third annual town awards.

Sponsored by Knutsford-based Forum of Private Business, six awards were presented across four categories; three civic, one youth, one community and one business

Shortlisted candidates were invited to attend the Town Awards presentation on Sunday, June 28, where they awaited with baited breath to find out if they had won.

The first of the three civic awards went to Knutsford Lion Clive Heath in recognition of his 30 years of service to the Knutsford Lions and his voluntary maintenance of the shrub beds and land on Bexton Lane.

The second award went to former Town Mayor Vivien Davies recognising the years of service she had given to the community as a councillor (county, borough and town) and the numerous community organisations she had been a part of including Friends of the Moor and the Civic Society.

The final civic award went to Jimmy Evans for his work on Longridge and Shaw Heath delivering football to more than 70 youngsters.

Commendations went to Elenor McAndrew, for going above and beyond the call of duty in her work at the Welcome Café and Nigel Muirhead for his vital roles in a number of community sporting groups.

The 2015 Youth Award was presented to 21-year-old Hannah Newton.

Hannah completed the Youth Federation Community Leader’s course and has been working with Community Spirit and the Welcome helping with youth activities and projects involving mental health.

The business award was presented to Sheldon's Dairy for supporting numerous community groups including the Knutsford FC and Knutsford Beer Festival as well as running a lottery in aide of Eat Cheshire Hospice.

Julia Chard, of Mr Simms Sweet Shoppe, had been shortlisted for her support of community events including the Bunny Hop and Pumpkin Path alongside Manchester Airport for their work with children at Manor Park Primary school and assisting clear up days on Longridge.

The winner of the Community Award was Knutsford Beer Festival Committee in recognition of both delivering a successful and popular town centre event and for raising more than £9,000 for local charities in just two years.

Shortlisted for the award were Knutsford in Bloom and Knutsford Royal May Day Committee.

“I’d like to offer huge congratulations to all the winners and to those shortlisted, added Cllr Dean.

"They are testament to what a strong community we have in Knutsford.

“These awards are all about singing the praises of our otherwise unsung heroes as they add so much to our community. Knutsford would not be such a special place to live without the countless hours of voluntary work undertaken by the individuals, community organisations and businesses who call Knutsford home.”