GOOD-WILLED volunteers were invited to a glamorous awards evening to honour their contributions to the lives of many in their community.

Essex County Council’s 2019 Who Will Care? Awards, hosted by BBC Essex presenter Dave Monk, welcomed four finalists from Maldon.

Among them was Business Award nominee Suzie’s Gift and Tea Shop, which was commended for hosting a variety of events and activities to help vulnerable people in Maldon.

The High Street shop created a ‘wishing washing line’ which granted the wishes of care home residents, set up a Farleigh Hospice bereavement service and the ‘Kindness in a Cup’ friendship group for those in need of someone to talk to.

Owner Suzie Pugh said: “It was a real honour to be a part of such a prestigious evening with amazing people. The best bit was being with my amazing team.

"Thank you to our customers and the community for embracing the opportunities we’ve given, their kindness has been amazing.

Another finalist in the category was the Café at St Peter’s Hospital in Spital Road.

It was recognised for its successful food bank, which works alongside the Barnardo’s charity to provide food for deprived families in the community.

The coffee shop also hosts a regular ‘Knit n’ Natter’ service to help people meet new friends.

Julie Taylor, who runs the cafe, said: “We were once again delighted to have not only been nominated, but to have made the top three finalists for the award – it was amazing.

“We are among so many caring, wonderful people in Essex.

“We are overjoyed and had a fantastic evening.”

Two more Maldon heroes, Steve Troop and Ross Holland, were also included in the list of individual finalists.

Mr Troop was recognised for his tireless work with Maldon and District Community Voluntary Services.

Mr Holland, founder of the Maldon Man Cave, also reached the finals after his group helped more men in the area to open up to others and reduce their risk of social isolation.

Essex County Council leader David Finch said: “Each year I am more impressed and heartened to hear the number of incredible stories of people making a real difference to their communities in Essex.

“Congratulations to everyone who won, as well as everyone who was nominated – you are all heroes.”