THE chairman of Wychavon District Council handed out community awards to deserving volunteers.

The WW1 Norton Group received the top award as they were presented with the Wychavon Diamond Jubilee Community Recognition Award.

The group was nominated by Norton Juxta Parish Council for the role they have played in raising awareness of Norton’s wartime history.

Dr Dave James from the Norton WW1 Group said: “I was very humbled to see who the other nominees were and rather stunned that we won.

"The most rewarding thing about what we do is to see the children learning about the important history of the Regiment, and also to see the veterans and the years fall away when they visit.”

Councillor Frances Smith, chairman of Wychavon District Council, presented the WW1 Norton Group with the trophy, which they will get to keep for 12 months, and a cheque for £200.

The group is made up of volunteers and was formed in 2014 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the First World War.

The awards were given at the Chairman's Community Awards at the Civic Centre in Pershore.

Councillor Frances Smith, Chairman of Wychavon District Council, said: "It was fantastic to learn about and recognise the local community spirit we have here in Wychavon. I feel very proud knowing that we have such dedicated people in our communities doing such wonderful work.”

In total nine nominations were received from the 29 Wychavon parishes that are signed up to the scheme.

Runner-up was councillor Christine Bowden, who was nominated by Droitwich Town Council Parish Council for running the Droitwich Stroke Club.

The stroke club is a social club run by volunteers for people who have suffered the debilitating effects of a stroke.

Mrs Bowden received a cheque for £100 to help support her community work.

There was also a £50 prize for Michael Egan, who was nominated by Dodderhill Parish Council for the educational exhibitions on the world wars he provides for schools and communities around Worcestershire.

Everyone nominated received a certificate of commendation.