Inspirational heroes who "go the extra mile" were celebrated at an awards ceremony.

The Mayor’s Community Awards 2018 was held at Redbridge Town Hall on Thursday, March 22.

The awards were presented by the Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Linda Huggett to recognise individuals, businesses and community groups who help others in Redbridge.

Award nominations were submitted by the public and shortlisted by a judging panel.

The Mayor of Redbridge, Cllr Linda Huggett, said: “I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to recognise these residents, businesses and groups who selflessly go the extra mile for the community. They are a true inspiration to us all."

Below are this year's winners:

Best Business Contribution to the Community

Group award winner: Steven Day & Sally Woodfield from Kenneth More Theatre.

The pair are said to have been “working tirelessly” to provide entertainment for residents and turning the fortunes of the Kenneth More Theatre around against “all the odds.”

Individual award winner: Gracy Metilda of Chosen Care Group.

Ms Metilda is credited with having created approximately 1000 jobs locally and helping those on benefits to enter employment; enabling 450 people to progress onto jobs or higher qualifications.

Community / Neighbourhood Champion

Group award winner: Glencoe Avenue Residents Group (GARG).

The group are to said to have provided “a fantastic range of activities” held throughout the year.

Individual award winner: Owais Niaz.

For volunteering on the Active Together project and being “a huge support,” inspiring residents of four estates to lead a more physically active lifestyle.

Taking Pride in Redbridge

Awarded to Geetisha Neermul for contributing time, energy and enthusiasm in making Redbridge a cleaner and greener place.

Caring for others in Redbridge

Group award winner:  Women in Need.

Awarded for starting a Facebook Group that sources essential items for local women’s refuges.

Individual award winner: Sudarshan Kapur.

Awarded for being “a healthcare advocate,” raising awareness of many health issues in the community and for raising more than £10,000 for charities in Redbridge.

Contribution in Support of young people

Dee Conlon. Awarded for “her dedication to changing young people's lives and for being a parent to students when parents can’t or won’t, so young people know there is someone that cares.”

Creating a Safer Redbridge

Awarded to Redbridge CVS (Appropriate Adult Volunteer Scheme). Since May 2016, volunteers supported vulnerable people with more than 400 interviews or other activities. They ensure vulnerable adults get the support they require in situations they may find daunting.

Recorder/Redbridge Rotary Club Young Citizen Award

Winner: Isaac Harvey

Runner Up: Jamala Osman

Mayor’s Special Award

The Mayor also presented Special Awards to:

Squadron Leader Jerry Godden to celebrate the squadron with over 1,000 cadets and the Royal Air Forces 100th anniversary, which is on April 1.

Flight Sergeant Natashya Holder, a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer at 241 (Wanstead & Woodford) Squadron. Natashya is a Flight Sergeant and has direct responsibility for more than 40 new cadets in a squadron of 120. She also heads up the squadron’s sports competitions.

Maria Sanchez of Treehouse Nursery. Maria has served on the mayor’s appeal committee with “great enthusiasm and commitment” and has been “an extraordinary role model” to the team.