THE DISTRICT'S great and good were celebrated at the annual Epping Forest District Council Civic Awards Ceremony on Friday.

Held at the Waltham Abbey Hilton, the glittering awards evening shone a spotlight on those residents who went the extra mile in 2017.

In honour and celebration of the Youth Council’s 10th anniversary this year, serving and former youth councillors were asked to present each award to the winners.

Amongst their number was staff sergeant instructor Dan Bees, who won the prestigious Citizen of the Year Award for his work leading the Epping cadets.

Runner up Lee Tant was highly commended for her priceless contribution to the Epping Forest Reuse service since its opening in 2013 as was Ray Harris, whose outstanding charity work and involvement in community action for people with disabilities for more than two decades was recognised.

The Chigwell Riding Trust volunteers were named Team of the Year 2018 for their work supporting 160 riders a week.

Chairman of Epping Forest District Council and the evening's host, Councillor David Stallan, said: “Every year we dedicate an evening to celebrate Epping Forest’s residents achievements, successes and their unwavering dedication to the area and their communities. This year was no different.”

“To the winners and runners up, congratulations. It is people like you that make the world a better place. Thank you for your selflessness, generosity and compassion.”

Mitchell Tassie, from North Weald, was named Young Citizen of the Year for leading the Epping Forest Volunteer Police Cadets.

Sarah Horgan, from Sir Charles Kao University Technical College, was acknowledged for the mentoring and support she provides her colleagues and her voluntary work.

As was Jack Rivers, from Waltham Abbey who helps young people with autism to engage in group activities.

Community service medals were received by Detective Inspector Rob Staples of Essex Police and Community Commander Mark Samuels of the Essex Fire and Rescue Service.

Epping Forest District Council Youth Council award winners Abigail Whelan, Jacob McNulty, Adam Freeman, Suzannah Halcrow and Annabelle Yaman were all commended for their outstanding achievements and dedication to their roles and Youth Councillors.

Christianna Vitanova, a promising rhythmic gymnast from Chigwell was the winner of this year’s sports bursary of £1,000.

The final award and £1,00 bursary was scooped Sam Edmunds and William Patrick Harrison of Chalk Lane Theatre Company, who were the winners of the creativity award and will take their production to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August 2018.