Champions in the community graced the Civic Hall in Grays tonight at the Thurrock Civic Awards ceremony.

Hosted by local Paralympian, Danny Crates, a total of nine awards were given out to people for their excellent work in the borough.

42 finalists were picked over nine categories and one from each were given a prestigious award.

The winners were:

  • Stronger Together Community Award - Samatha Kahn and Nicola Walker of the National Autistic Society.
  • Creative Excellence Award (sponsored by the Thurrock Gazette) - Nadine Herrett.
  • Environmental Champion Award - Madstone Ltd.
  • Young Achiever Award - Courtney-Lee Collins.
  • Business in the Community Award - TIME (Therapy in Musical Expression).
  • Sporting Achievement Award - Jean Jones.
  • Healthy Living Award - Peter Eates and Elizabeth Cox.
  • Rachel Middleton Award - Katie Yoxall-Davies.
  • Mayor's Lifetime Achievement Award - Philip Taynton