CHESHIRE East Council’s countryside ranger service has been shortlisted as a finalist in this year’s Everyday Superhero awards in the category of active neighbourhood.

The awards, run by Active Cheshire, celebrate the achievements of those who help and inspire their community to develop regular active lifestyle habits.

The ranger service has been shortlisted in recognition of their work in encouraging active lifestyles.

The ranger service aims to develop, enhance and protect countryside sites in Cheshire East, while encouraging and promoting the use of the council’s outdoor recreational facilities.

Rangers manage and care for the many areas in the countryside including woodlands, country parks, nature reserves and protected green spaces across the borough, along with many miles of trails.

The rangers also run a programme of special events, country walks and even climbing experiences, in addition to an action-packed schedule of activities to keep children active and exploring during the school holidays.

Cllr Nick Mannion said: “I’m delighted the ranger service has been shortlisted for this prestigious award, giving the opportunity to recognise the outstanding work carried out every day to keep residents of Cheshire East active and outside, enjoying the beautiful open spaces that we have throughout the borough.

“The rangers are supported by volunteers, who deliver the equivalent of 1,200 days per year and we get around 1.8 million visitors to our sites, including Tatton Park.”

CEO of Active Cheshire, Anne Boyd said: “Huge congratulations to all our finalists for this years’ Everyday Superheroes Awards, we have been overwhelmed with volume of incredible nominations from Cheshire and Warrington.

“The shortlisting process has been extremely difficult and challenging for our judges, filtering through hundreds of applications.”

The Active Cheshire awards take place on September 25.