AWARDS have been given to people who have made an outstanding contribution to part of north Durham.

It is the last time Derwentside District Council will be able to honour citizens as the authority is being abolished next year.

A total of 14 people have been named as ambassadors and heroes at a ceremony at a ceremony at the Civic Hall in Consett.

Councillor Alex Watson, leader of Derwentside District Council, said: "There is, in many communities, a number of individuals whose work in the community goes far beyond the normal participation we can reasonably expect.

"Their work adds significantly to our quality of life and is of immense value to us all.

"Derwentside is fortunate that we have our share of such people and it is a number of those individuals that we honour..

"Heroes of Derwentside recognises the excellent work being carried out by individuals without thought of reward or recognition."

Each recipient was awarded a medal, a citation and their name has been added to the existing roll of honour.

Winners included Don Robson, the youngest ever chairman of Durham County Council whose vision it was to bring first class cricket to the county.

He was made an ambassador for his services to local government and drive that has helped make Durham County this year's cricket champions.

Olympic swimmer Joanne Jackson was also made an ambassador for the district.

The 22-year-old became the British and European 400m freestyle champion with Derwentside ASC and won an bronze medal in 400 m freestyle in Beijing this year.

Hero awards were given to people for helping youngsters, those with special needs and service to their community.

The council's deputy leader, Councillor Michael Malone, said: "Society today is far to often centred on personal gain and material possessions, which makes the selfless acts and voluntary work carried out by our award recipients all that more impressive.

"The work of those we honour covers a wide range of community activities ranging from charity fundraising, working with community groups, youth work and work with the elderly.

"All our recipients have several things in common apart from their commitment to working for the benefit of their community."