COMMUNITY heroes who went the extra mile for others during the pandemic were honoured for their "selfless dedication" at Congleton Town Council's Civic Awards ceremony.
The awards were presented by the town's mayor Denis Murphy, deputy mayor Margaret Gartside and former mayor Sally Ann Holland.
They were handed out to residents who had undertaken something extraordinary under the categories of 'Business', 'Community', 'Individual' and 'Youth'.
Cllr Murphy said: "We received over 70 nominations from people who recommended those that had gone above and beyond their usual job or volunteering role over these past 18 months to support vulnerable townsfolk and keep critical services going.
"Everyone has made a difference through what was and, in some cases, continues to be a challenging time. Congleton is fortunate to have so many exceptional people living in the town."
He added: "There were so many fantastic stories received, every story was different, every volunteer so appreciated by the person that nominated them. The judging panel found it impossible to pick winners and so it was agreed that all those nominated would be invited to a thankyou part at Congleton Cricket Club to celebrate their amazing achievements."
Among those honoured was Rita Wild. She has worked at Readesmoor Medical Centre for over 15 years and gave up her spare time to help at the vaccination clinics at the Town Hall.
Rita said: "I feel totally shocked to receive the award, I cried at work when I found out I had been nominated! I was only doing what I love best, helping other people."
Another award was scooped by Alison Cann, who used her sewing skills while she was furloughed to help others. Alison said: "I'm delighted to receive this civic award; I would like to dedicate it to all the people who joined my sewing bee group to help stitch over 300 laundry bags for the NHS.
"We made scrubs, head bands and face masks that also raised money for the Congleton food hub. That is for you all."
In the business category, Bare Health was recognised for providing essential services throughout the restrictions. Business owner Melanie Ratcliffe, a Cheshire Independent columnist, said: "We are absolutely thrilled, honoured and ever so slightly overwhelmed to receive a Covid Civic Award.
"We are hugely grateful to those of you who took the time to nominate the team. It was heart-warming to be in the same room with so many amazing people from our local community who selflessly helped those in need during the Covid19 pandemic."
Others praised for their civic contribution included The Congleton Food Hub, who served the community from March 2020 through to April 2021 delivering around 70 food parcels a week to those who were most in need, whilst also delivering welfare and thank you packs to front line services and workers.
At Christmas, the 'hubbers' as they were affectionately known, led by Shaun Radcliffe, put together around 750 food parcels and goodie packs to deliver some Christmas cheer to those most in need.
Similar praise was lavished on the young people of the town. Best friends Francesca Carter and Lydia Higgins were commended for their commitment to keeping their local area little free and a clean and safe place to play for themselves and others.
Callum Bloor, who organised many activities to raise funds to purchase materials to make much needed supplies for the NHS staff at Congleton and Macclesfield Hospital was also recognised.
Cheshire East Council was also keen to thank volunteers who helped to deliver the People Helping People programme in Congleton and through its Volunteer Co-ordination Point sponsored the party.