PEOPLE whose hard work has made a difference to the lives of others were honoured at the Selwood Housing group's first Make a Difference awards.

Twelve awards were presented by Wiltshire Council youth facilitator Emma Drage, Trowbridge Mayor Deb Halik, Selwood Housing group enterprise director Rebecca O’Neil and group chief executive Barry Hughes.

The ceremony in Trowbridge on Wednesday was described as a joyful evening, with much celebration, recognising the efforts of ordinary people who continuously support others who live around them.

Community Together award winner Lesley Horne, described as ‘Someone who puts everyone else above herself and drops everything to help others’ was nominated for her role in running the Seymour community hub.

She has also started a children’s club, running on Monday afternoons in term time, for all local youngsters.

Lesley said: "Thank you Selwood Housing for this award and for supporting the community. I had to ask myself ‘why would anyone vote for me?’ I’m just doing something that I love, supporting the Seymour community hub.”

Two awards were also presented by The Learning Curve, part of the Selwood group.

Outstanding adult learner award winner Ruby Horne said: "I really am proud, which is something I've never been able to feel for myself before all the groups and courses. My life has changed so much and it's amazing. Thanks so much to The Learning Curve.’’

Other awards went to: Young person’s award, Ashton Griffin; Good Neighbour award, Trowbridge, Jim and Petra Kirkland; Good Neighbour award, Melksham, Bob and Victoria White; Good Neighbour award, Warminster, Beryl Doherty; Good Neighbour award, Bradford on Avon, Andrew Rose; Good Neighbour award, Westbury, Peter Kent; Outstanding young learner award, Michael Evans; Inspiring Involvement award, Andrew Halliday; Community Together runners-up, Catherine Pilling and Melksham and District Seniors Forum.

The Make a Difference awards were created to honour Selwood Housing tenants and people living in or near the social housing provider's communities in Trowbridge, Melksham, Bradford on Avon, Westbury and Warminster.