INSPIRATIONAL charities, community groups and volunteers in Suffolk have been celebrated at an annual awards ceremony.

East Anglian Daily Times: Maureen Reynel, Chief Executive of Families in Need, picked up the Volunteer of the Year award at the High Sheriff of Suffolk awards.Maureen Reynel, Chief Executive of Families in Need, picked up the Volunteer of the Year award at the High Sheriff of Suffolk awards. (Image: Archant)

The High Sheriff Awards saw six prizes handed out in recognition of the work the many voluntary groups and unsung heroes who do so much to make Suffolk a safer, healthier and more vibrant county to live.

The deserving winners were unveiled by The High Sheriff of Suffolk, Andrew Norman-Butler on Thursday at a ceremony at University Campus Suffolk.

The award for Suffolk Group or Organisation of the Year was presented to Lighthouse Women’s Aid.

The organisation supports and empowers women and children who have suffered or are at risk of suffering from domestic abuse or violence.

Deputy chief executive Molly Kirk said: “We are thrilled to have received this award in recognition of the work we do in helping women.”

East Anglian Sailing Trust (EAST), based in Levington, picked up the 2012 Games Legacy award.

The High Sheriff wanted to build on the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games by recognising an individual or voluntary group that was inspired by the Games and has gone on to inspire others to take part in sport.

Following last summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, EAST’s membership grew steadily in the number of volunteers and users.

Bill Smith, from EAST, said: “We are really very thrilled to win.

“It will really give us a terrific boost and encourage all our volunteers.”

Mr Norman-Butler also made grants of up to £1,500 from the High Sheriff’s Fund, which is administered by The Suffolk Foundation, to 12 voluntary groups.

Mr Norman-Butler said: “I should like to congratulate all the winners and runners-up.

“Having to choose those who were successful out of so many excellent applications was very difficult.

“During my year in office I have travelled extensively all over Suffolk and it has been a privilege to have met so many people who devote their lives to making Suffolk a better and safer place in which to live.”