Dane Sound Community Radio has celebrated its local heroes with awards for supporting the local community during an unprecedented 2020.

The Holmes Chapel-based station that broadcasts throughout Cheshire and beyond holds its Dane Sound Hero Awards annual, with nomination received from the public.

2020 has been a year like no other and as well as the five main awards, the station also recognised five 'Covid Community Heroes'.

"The response for our 2020 awards has been phenomenal," said Dane Sound's Debra Cummins.

"There are so many people in our community doing wonderful things, volunteering their time and being so supportive.

"The awards are an opportunity to thank them all and recognise their fantastic work.".

The People’s Choice Award, which was voted on by members of the public, was awarded to Glyn Nicholls who was a member of the steering group who set up Holmes Chapel U3A 10 years ago, she is also a Village Volunteer and has supported and cared for many vulnerable residents during the COVID pandemic.

The Individual Award was presented to Kevin Brownlow, Head Coach, who set up Holmes Chapel Boxing Club two years ago.

The club is moving to larger premises in 2021 due to considerable growth and continues to support 9 – 17 years with a range of training and development opportunities.

The Young Hero Award was given to Lauren & Rosie Kozyra who raised over £365 for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) with a virtual fundraiser during Spring and Summer 2020.

The Toy Appeal received the Fundraising Group Award. Having faced many challenges with logistics and funding throughout the pandemic, they safely provided 6100 toy sacks to children in poverty who would normally not receive any gifts at Christmas.

The Unsung Hero Award went to Alex Davidson who provides a huge amount of support to many residents in the community, and is a member and runner with Team Robster, raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity.

Taking home the Covid Community Hero Awards were:

Anita Armitt, who has played a major role in Holmes Chapel for many years, as a Parish Councillor, a Covid community volunteer and a member of the wonderful yarn bombing team.

Jill Booth, a local primary teacher, who has voluntarily created and broadcasted a Hymns & Reflections radio show to reach those unable to attend Sunday services.

Teresa McFarquhar, who set up and ran the Lockdown Library from her garage, a service that proved to be very popular and greatly appreciated by residents of all ages.

Lucy Oliver for setting up a mental health Facebook page, offering mental health advice & support. Lucy is also a volunteer for the Middlewich Food Bank – organising collection and deliveries.

Sue & Mike Oliver, for many years have supported the Middlewich Food Bank by taking donations from the community and making sure they get to the families who need them.

There were also two Special Awards presented to John Clowes and David Monks who, for many years, have run and organised the Village Volunteer Group who keep Holmes Chapel looking at its best with gardening and litter picking.

Due to the current restrictions the team at Dane Sound were unable to present the awards in person but have ensured that they get to the winners in a Covid safe way.