UNSUNG heroes were recognised for their efforts at an awards event.

Hampshire County Council hosted the Good Neighbour awards and the Making a Difference awards for young people, where 70 county residents were honoured for making a positive difference to the life of others in their communities.

Councillor Ken Thornber, chairman of the council, hosted the awards at the Great Hall, in Winchester, last night.

He said: “This year we were keen to showcase how young and older people give up their time to help improve the quality of life in their communities. I was particularly pleased to see examples of intergenerational support, with young supporting older people, and vice versa.

“This was the 10th Good Neighbours awards and over the years I have been in the privileged position of being able to personally thank hundreds of individuals and voluntary groups who have provided so much time and support for others in their local community. Yet each year I am still taken aback by the selfless commitment so many people make, expecting no thanks or recognition.

“I hope that through these awards we are able to show the value we place on the activities and support provided by all our Good Neighbours. Everyone who was nominated for an award should be proud of the work they do – they are an inspiration to us all and deserve this recognition.”

The awards were created by Hampshire County Council in partnership with Age Concern Hampshire, Brendoncare Club Hampshire, Carers Together, the Good Neighbours Support Service, RVS, The Children’s Alliance and Community Development Facilitators.