Local heroes who improve the lives of others have been recognised in the St Albans Mayor’s Pride Awards.

Eight awards were presented at the Alban Arena to people and groups who serve the community without asking for anything back.

Community Champion of the Year was awarded to milkman of 38 years Mick Tutton, who supports his older customers by doing their shopping, taking them on walks and chatting to them about their lives.

Brothers Andrew and Simon Salter won Cultural Innovation of the Year for their testicular cancer awareness campaign which launched the Twitter hashtag #feelingnuts. Their work led to a Channel 4 Comedy Night.

The Young Person of Distinction Award went to Emma Cox, who cares for her mother who suffers from Multiple Sclerosis and is wheelchair dependent.

Terry Dean received the Mayor’s Recognition Award for his service to the community maintaining the cricket pitch and bowling green in Clarence Park for over 50 years.

Guests at the ceremony watched performances by local dance troupe Living the Dream, St Albans Gospel Choir and a speech by Paralympian David Clarke.

Mayor of St Albans Councillor Geoff Harrison said: "I was amazed by the achievements of all the individuals and organisations nominated for the awards and it was a difficult task to select the winner."