Blackwood’s community heroes have been honoured in the town’s annual civic awards.
Organised by Blackwood Town Council, the awards aim to recognise people who have made an outstanding contribution to community and civic life.
This year’s winners were Bill Baber and Bill Coppage.
Mr Baber was nominated by resident Lorna Chard for his contribution made to the town in his service to the Blackwood Division of the Royal British Legion.
Mr Baber works hard at promoting the Poppy Appeal, as well as being a case worker, a parade organiser working with a wide range of people.
Bill Coppage was nominated by town councillor Andrew Farina-Childs in recognition for his contribution to the town as the longest serving President of Blackwood Cricket Club and his significant charity work – both locally and nationally.
The award ceremony was jointly held with this year’s Blackwood in Bloom presentations.
Blackwood Town Council recognises the efforts of local, green-fingered residents who help make the town a pleasure to visit.
The Blackwood in Bloom competition has run for a number of years and nominations are received from county borough and town councillors for the best front garden.
Councillors said they were impressed by the high standard of all entries this year.
This year’s Blackwood in Bloom winners were:
Mrs G Hemmings , Mrs & Mrs S Hopkins , Mr & Mrs B James ,Mr & Mrs A Hughes, Mr & Mrs A Williams, Mr & Mrs G Davies, Mr & Mrs P Dury and Mr & Mrs P Anthony.
All Blackwood in Bloom winners received a certificate and a cheque for £25 sponsored by Blackwood Town Council.
Cllr Farina-Childs, chairman of events at Blackwood Town COuncil, said: “The awards ceremony highlights the hard work and dedication by many in our community.
“It was a pleasure to recognise individuals for their efforts. Everyone had an enjoyable evening and I would like to offer my personal congratulations to our well-deserved winners.”
Now in its third year, the awards ceremony was held at Blackwood Miners’ Institute on Thursday November 7.
Guests included Islwyn AM Gwyn Price and his wife Gaynor, Inspector Mark Smith of Gwent Polce, Blackwood Mayor Granville Hale and the town’s councillors.
Entertainment was provided by local singer Yasmine Davies.