COMMUNITY heroes have been honoured at a special ceremony.

The winners of the 10th Annual Knutsford Town Awards were congratulated for their dedication and commitment to the town.

The event was held at Knutsford Little Theatre, with mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business, announcing this year’s winners.

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The mayor said “I would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to submit a nomination this year. These awards would not happen without you.

Knutsford Guardian: Winners of the 10th annual Knutsford Town Awards with mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessWinners of the 10th annual Knutsford Town Awards with mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

“I know previous mayor’s have said this too but it really is true. Those who were shortlisted should be so incredibly proud.”

Twin sisters Liv and Jess Johnson received the Youth Award for their voluntary work with 7th Knutsford Brownies as part of their bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Knutsford and District Talking Newspaper was presented with the Community Award.

This charity have been supporting the visually impaired community by providing a free audio recording of the Knutsford Guardian for 45 years to ensure they are kept informed of community news.

Volunteers have only missed four editions, due to Covid, over the past four decades.

The Civic Award for individuals who work to make Knutsford a better place, went to three people.

Knutsford Guardian: Rob Lyons, of 1st Knutsford Scouts, receives a Civic Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessRob Lyons, of 1st Knutsford Scouts, receives a Civic Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Rob Lyons was honoured for leading 1st Knutsford Scouts for a decade and using his skills as a joiner and plumber to fit out the group’s new scout hut.

Judy Clifford, hailed as a ‘mother figure and friend to many’ at the Welcome won the second award.

Judy, who has taught many people to knit and supported neighbours through challenging times, was unable to attend the ceremony.

Knutsford Guardian: Gemma Jackson receives a Civic Award from Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business, left, and mayor Cllr Mike HoughtonGemma Jackson receives a Civic Award from Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business, left, and mayor Cllr Mike Houghton (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Gemma Jackson, founder and leader of the Wrap Up Knutsford group was the third winner for her dedication supporting local families by appealing for winter coats to keep children warm.

Knutsford Guardian: Gemma Jackson, centre, receives a Civic award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessGemma Jackson, centre, receives a Civic award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

The evening was a double triumph for a coffee barista who launched his mobile business, Tatton Perk, in a distinctive orange van.

Knutsford Guardian: Mark Lee-Kilgariff receives the Business Award from Ian Cass, left, managing director of the Forum of Private Buisness and mayor Cllr Mike HoughtonMark Lee-Kilgariff receives the Business Award from Ian Cass, left, managing director of the Forum of Private Buisness and mayor Cllr Mike Houghton (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Mark Lee-Kilgariff won the Business Award for various community initiatives at his two coffee shops, including offering free drinks and a friendly welcome to anyone struggling to keep their home warm.

Knutsford Guardian: Mark Lee-Kilgariff, centre, receives the Business Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessMark Lee-Kilgariff, centre, receives the Business Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Launching free bike checks for visitors and supporting charities were among some of his other projects.

Knutsford Guardian: Alison Hooper, head of Egerton School, presents the Sustainability Award to Mark Lee-KilgariffAlison Hooper, head of Egerton School, presents the Sustainability Award to Mark Lee-Kilgariff (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Mark was also presented with Knutsford Schools’ Sustainability Award which recognises eco friendly practices.

Knutsford Guardian: Dan Belcher, centre, receives the Mayor's Special Award from the mayor, Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessDan Belcher, centre, receives the Mayor's Special Award from the mayor, Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Dan Belcher of Guy’s Barbers received the Mayor’s Special Award award for delivering outstanding customer service whilst battling challenging personal circumstances.

Knutsford Guardian: Jack Street, centre, receives the Extra Mile Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private BusinessJack Street, centre, receives the Extra Mile Award from mayor Cllr Mike Houghton, left, and Ian Cass, managing director of the Forum of Private Business (Image: Tessa Carroll)

Jack Street, of Johnsons the Cleaners, won the Extra Mile Award for going above and beyond for the benefit of the local community.

This conscientious employee was commended for his kind and patient support to customers, particularly helping older people to use new technology for various services on offer.