A LYE charity has scooped a prestigious community hero award after its “dedication” in supporting those living in the area.

The Apni Zaroorat Community Network (AZCN) has been named as the ‘Outstanding Community Project’ in an award scheme organised by the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner.

AZCN chief executive Asima Khalid accepted the award on behalf of the charity, which is run by a group of women volunteers, at a ceremony held at the Midlands Arts Centre on Tuesday night (June 30).

The group, whose name in Urdu means ‘Our Needs’, is based at Valley Road Youth Centre and works to improve the lives of women, young people and their families from all ethnic backgrounds.

Asima said: “I was so surprised but absolutely delighted to receive this award on behalf of the entire team at AZCN.

“It means a great deal that our work has been recognised by the commissioner in this way and we look forward to continuing to work closely with West Midlands Police to help make our community a crime-free, family environment.”

West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, who launched the search for community heroes back in January, said: “I am absolutely delighted to recognise the dedication and hard work of AZCN.

“The work that they do keeps young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour and has a positive impact on the community.

“AZCN’s work makes the community a better place to live and is beneficial to local young people.”