COMMUNITY stalwarts have been celebrated for their contribution to the district at a glitzy awards ceremony which was attended by hundreds of people.

Tendring Council held its ninth Pride of Tendring Awards at the Prince Theatre, in Clacton, last month, which was hosted by county councillor Alan Goggin.

More than 200 audience members turned out to see coveted accolades presented to inspiring individuals and dedicated charities and organisations.

The purpose of the evening was to shine a light and recognise the efforts of those who have somewhat served the community in a positive way.

All of the award recipients were nominated by Tendring councillors, such as Essex Wildlife Trust veteran John Hall, who was put forward by Carlo Guglielmi.

Some of the individual winners included Clacton historian George Hardwick, and Christine Howe, who runs beavers, cubs, scouts and explorer groups.

Melissa Wenn, who helms the Princes Youth Theatre, was also put forward for recognition, as well as Mistley’s community champions Rob and Richard Horlock.

Elsewhere, Ellamy Fox-Fraser, who created the Tendring Primary Recycling Scheme, Harwich Town Crier, James Cole, and Great Oakley’s Pat Ling were celebrated.

William Taylor, who owns a boxing club in St Osyth, was also recognised at the event, in addition to Donna Mills, from Highfields Primary School, in Lawford, and Tendring Council Open Spaces manager Trevor Mills.

The immeasurable work of district projects such as the Clacton Park Run, Brightlingsea’s Porridge and Pens, Lido Volunteers and Saturday Club, and The Great Bromley Cross Pub and Community Benefit Society, was also highlighted.

The cast of Godspell from the Princes Youth Theatre performed at the annual bash, as well as pianist Bethan Lawes and Tendring Voices from Harwich Sing.

Speaking on the evening of the event, Tendring Council chairman, Dan Land, said: “Those appearing tonight do not ask for recognition or reward; but nonetheless they are so deserving of these accolades, which are just a small thank you for everything that they do.

“Each and every one has made a difference – an actual, visible, positive difference – in their community, and for that a lot of people are grateful.”

The event raised £1,400 for the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance Trust, which is one of councillor Land’s chosen charities for his term in office.