A GRATEFUL council has held its own awards to recognise the public service and contributions by community stalwarts.
Manningtree Town Council hosted the annual Community Engagement Awards in the function room at the Mistley Masonic Lodge in Manningtree.
Manningtree mayor Michelle Taylor commended the winners for their amazing contributions to the community.
She said: “Manningtree Town Council was happy to host our annual awards event at the Mistley Masonic lodge where we honoured the organisers of the Manningtree Earth Festival and members of PACE with the Community award.
“The amazing work by the whole team last year really put Manningtree on the sustainability map and we can't wait to see what this year's festival highlights.’
The winners were John and Caroline Hall, Bonny Williams and Steve Tattam who together organised the 2022 Manningtree Earth Festival which took place last summer.
As Steve Tattam was away Manningtree businessman Rowan Hunter collected his award on his behalf.
There was also an individual winner, Steve Russell.
Ms Taylor added: “Steve Russell, this year's individual award winner, has worked tirelessly in all weathers, throughout the years litter picking in and round our little town, as well as parts of Lawford and Mistley.
“His quiet, unassuming and selfless voluntary work has helped to keep Manningtree streets tidy. He is a true unsung hero.”
Manningtree's Community Engagement Awards have been running for many years.
Previous winners include Rebecca Bibko, who was recognised last year for her efforts in helping Manningtree achieve plastic-free status.
Other past winners include the Manningtree Street Keepers, who help keep Manningtree a Glysophate-free town, and Manningtree Rotary Club for its tireless support in the town.
Manningtree Town Council has big plans for this year including working towards becoming a dementia friendly organisation.
It is working with other groups and organisations in the area to reach this goal.
For more information please contact the Mayor of Manningtree Michelle Taylor on 07974 098 519 or Jennifer Spear at clerk@manningtreetowncouncil.org.uk.
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