VETERAN volunteer Robin Catt has been rewarded for his years of service.

The 82-year-old, of Oaklands, Chippenham, was one of the four people to receive the town's annual Civic Awards at a ceremony at St Andrew's Church on Sunday.

Mr Catt has spent the past 20 years working alongside people in the town, spreading his time across a variety of community groups.

“I worked at the local radio station for what must’ve been 20 years as well as the talking newspaper," he said.

"I also did a show on BBC radio for young people aged between 14 and 21. I was part of the Chippenham Rotary for a while also, I was even secretary at one point."

He was also a youth group volunteer, and the Bridge Centre.

"I must admit that receiving the award was a shock and it was a real honour as it shows that people value the work I have done," he said.

Chippenham Mayor Terry Gibson presented the awards following the annual Civic Service.

The awards see members of the local community being invited to nominate people, groups or services in the town that are considered to make a difference in every day life.

Coun Gibson said: "Two of this year’s recipients have put in many years of hard work – Rob Catt who has worked with a large number of organisations and Dick Stanger who has been involved with the internationally renowned folk festival for four decades. These awards are very well deserved.”

The Rise Trust children’s centre in The Oaks also received an award for the support it offers for families to help them get back on their feet and face challenges.

Jill Gillet, 39, of Hill Rise, was due to receive the award on the centre’s behalf but was too ill to attend.

She said: “It’s really good news that the centre received a civic award on Sunday. When I first moved to the area I felt secluded and the centre offered a lot of support. I sometimes feel they don’t get the credit they deserve but it is great they have been recognised for all of the help they provide.”

Coun Gibson also presented awards to the Ivy Wildlife Garden and Geoff Coleman.

The Ivy Wildlife Garden team received its award after creating and maintaining the community gardens that are used by residents in Field View, Royal Close and Charter Road, after working together with GreenSquare and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust.

Mr Coleman was rewarded for creating a wooden replica of the Mayor’s silver mace used on school visits.

Coun Gibson said: “Chippenham has dedicated people who make a real difference to our town through the work they do. These awards help recognise that work and I’m delighted that they are being formally recognised and thanked."