UNSUNG heroes were given recognition for their hard work at a reception thrown by the mayor of Bexley.

Mayor Councillor Aileen Beckwith handed out certificates to people who have voluntarily dedicated themselves to helping the community at a special council meeting.

Winning the Young Persons Award was the 2nd Erith Cubs group and runner up was Victoria Porritt.

There were five winners from 18 nominations for the "voluntary service by adults". Don Lonergan, Alan and Pam Bedford, and Susan and Derek Driver recieved recognition in this catagory.

Other winners included chairman of Bexleyheath PHAB (Physically Handicapped and Able Bodied) Marc Hawkins and Neil Martin, a former firefighter who now works with the Junior Citizen scheme as well Volunteer Police Cadet Corps, sea cadets, and Air Training Corps.