SELFLESS heroes and unsung organisations have been praised for going the extra mile to make Malmesbury a better place to live at the annual civic awards.

Crowds filled the Town Hall on Thursday, April 27 for the annual event hosted by Mayor Wayne Jones, which celebrated the very best in the community.

Speaking at the awards, Coun Jones said: “It is important to us that we take the opportunity to recognise the fantastic people who are making a difference in our community.

“I would like to offer my congratulations to all of our nominees this evening. You are all winners and should be very proud of the contribution you have made, and will continue to make.”

The citizen of the year award was awarded to both Ash Scott and Lisa Gore for their ongoing commitment to the farmers' market where they transport, build, take down and store the market stalls each and every week. The duo, who also assist with other large town events, beat nominees Hay Blake, David Harvey, Sara Gray, Margaret Perrin, Ellen Black, Daphne Jordan and Fred Finch to the spot.

Daniel Baines, a Year 13 pupil at Malmesbury School, received the young citizen of the year award after his bid to join the prestigious Rambert School of Dance. The dancer pipped fellow nominee Jack McClelland, who is known for his cadet success, to the post which is supported by the Rotary Club of the South Cotswolds.

In the final award for the evening, Malmesbury and District Food Bank were honoured as as the organisation of the year ahead of the Malmesbury Long Players and 992 Squadron, for their support of vulnerable people in time of need.

A spokesman for the Food Bank said: "Thank you to everyone who supports us, and allows us to help those in need. We are very grateful for every donation we receive, however large or small."