The hard work of unsung heroes in Essex has been celebrated at the 2018 Pride of Tendring Awards.

The event, which took place at Clacton’s Princes Theatre, has been running for seven years to show appreciation to those who go above and beyond to help their communities.

All of the winners were nominated by Tendring district councillors.

Among those who received awards were Jean White, 84, and Daphne West, 80, who are sometimes referred to as the ‘Litter Ladies’ of Frinton. They have dedicated their Wednesday mornings for the past 10 years to picking up litter and tidying up - despite between them having a combined age of 164.

Also a winner was Clacton resident Patrisha Turner, who despite her own ill-health and that of her husband, still spends around 50 hours a week helping those in need. She shops regularly for the elderly and those with mental health issues and ferries people around who wouldn’t otherwise be able to reach appointments.

Tim Sutton was also recognised for his efforts in bringing cheer to children during a stay in hospital. Eight years ago his daughter, Amy, was treated for cancer at Addenbrook’s Hospital. Tim’s way of saying thanks was to start an Easter egg run for Colchester children’s ward and Addenbrook’s cancer ward. This year he delivered 1,500 presents at Christmas and 2,000 Easter eggs to patients in surrounding areas.

At Easter, Tim dresses up as Stormy Stan the lifeboat man and at Christmas is Santa. For the past five years he has worked with the East of England Ambulance Service as one of the Community First Responders.

Mark Platt, chairman of Tendring District Council, said the 17 recipients have no expectation of an award. “They are thoroughly deserving of the accolades they will be receiving, and it is a small thank you for everything they do for our society,” he said. “Each and every one of them has made a real difference and they represent a wide variety of groups and organisations.”

Other award winners were: Anthony Sanders, Harwich Secret Gardens, Mad About Theatre Company, Jim Bligh, Juliet Roberts, Karlie McGregor, Lesley Anne Stronge, Maybush Inn volunteers, Brightlingsea Litter Pickers, Monica Lindsey Graves, Beryl Hurst, Ellen Chubb, Steve Houston and Alix Sheppard.