THE chairman of Odiham Parish Council has been nationally recognised for his work in the community at an awards ceremony.

Councillor Jon Hale received an award from the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).

Cllr Hale was awarded one of its prestigious Star Council trophies in the Councillor of the Year category at NALC’s annual general meeting that took place on October 30.

Cllr Hale was nominated for his involvement with a variety of community projects and initiatives, including the RAF100 celebrations, a new play area, the Parish Calendar, Community Awards, bringing back a fireworks night to the parish and the Armistice centenary plans to name a few.

Cllr Hale said: “2018 has been an unprecedented year for community projects in Odiham and it has been a privilege and pleasure to work alongside a team of superb councillors and volunteers on a number of unique and exciting initiatives.

“To be nominated for a Councillor of the Year award for this work was a total surprise and it was an absolute honour to be recognised by NALC in this way.”

NALC’s annual Star Council Awards ceremony celebrates the positive impact local councils, councillor and county associations have on their communities, with their awards representing the ultimate accolade in this sector.

There were a record number of nominations this year in the awards scheme, coming in from authorities from across the country.