THE sporting, art and community achievements of townsfolk were recognised at a new awards evening.

Bromsgrove District Council's new Spirit of Bromsgrove Awards were held at the Artrix, in School Drive, on Tuesday, February 25.

Bromsgrove residents were encouraged to submit their nominations for several categories, with a shortlist drawn up, and the winners announced on the evening.

Among the winners were Adam Lote, who was given the young volunteer of the year award and Lorraine Asland, who won the volunteer of the year award.

Lorraine has served as Bromsgrove Hockey Club secretary, and led the campaign for Bromsgrove's first artificial turf facility.

Unsung hero of the year went to volunteer Jules Evans, while outstanding achievement unsung hero award was presented to John Horwood.

The Safer Bromsgrove Award was given to Bromsgrove Street Pastors, the scheme offering support to over-exuberant and depressed people, particularly binge drinkers and late night revellers.

In arts, the most promising newcomer individual award went to Emma Leigh, while the organisation award was presented to the Orchestra of St John.

Outstanding individual was a shared award between Jennie McGregor-Smith and Jim Page. Jennie was recently involved with the successful campaign to restore the John Adams Memorial, while Jim has supported a number of Bromsgrove groups and will be well known as chairman of the Housman Society.

The outstanding organisation award was presented to the semi professional theatrical group, All and Sundry. Shannon Brown picked up the award for under 18 outstanding individual.

The Artrix Theatre received the outstanding organisation in youth award, recognising the arts opportunities it offers young people.

The first lifetime achievement award was presented to Mary White, who has been instrumental in turning Bromsgrove Festival into an annual institution that attracts people from across the country, and the world.

The award will carry her name when it is presented in the future.

In sports, junior volunteer of the year was presented to Laura Rolinson, senior sports personality of the year went to Simon Burgess, while coach of the year was given to Chris Garry.

Sports Club of the Year was presented to Wythall based Redhill Archers.