A Volunteer at the Royal Gunpowder mills is amongst those to win praise for highlighting the town at the first Essex tourism awards.

Len Stuart, who has been volunteering for the past five years was given a Highly Commended Certificate for Outstanding Customer Service.

Although Len was just pipped at the post for the top award, he was still given high praise by the judges for his informative guides at the historic site.

He became fascinated with the Mills 50 years ago, when he started working with explosives and technology.

After retiring in 2004, his knowledge and fascination of rocket science has helped Len to give talks to the public.

Other Waltham Abbey attractions and groups also received high praise at the ceremony at the Cliffs Pavilion at Southend-on-Sea on September 10.

The Waltham Abbey Town Partnership were also proud to receive Finalist Certificates in the Best Small Essex Attraction and the Best Tourism Experience categories in recognition of their contribution to tourism in the County.

The awards sponsored by Essex County Council, highlight the best of Essex Tourism and aim to raise the profile of the industry.