AN awards evening praising the great work of members of Maldon town’s community took place virtually this year.

Maldon Town Council’s Pride of Maldon awards, which was hosted by master of ceremonies Mark Heard, invited nominees from all over the town to recognise the inspiring work they have done.

Awards were given out by the panel, which included town mayor Abdul Hafiz.

The prestigious Pride of Maldon award, presented by the mayor, was given to Suzanne Finch, parks and countryside community officer for Maldon District Council.

A town council spokesman said: “Suzanne has assisted with the design and maintenance of many of the open spaces in Maldon and this includes leading volunteer and payback groups in caring for our cemeteries and open spaces.

“During this time of Covid and throughout the lockdowns, she has gone above and beyond to make these areas more attractive for residents.

“Councillors were impressed by her nomination, which stated Sue has worked tirelessly and given much of her own time to make the public areas in Maldon look welcoming.”

Framed certificates will be delivered to all the winners.

Other awards included:

Citizen Of The Year - introduced by mayor Abdul Hafiz and awarded to Julie Taylor.

A spokesman said: “This is for doing an outstanding job year on year and especially during lockdown when she sent out food parcels from her own home.

“Julie has a huge heart and works tirelessly for the residents of Maldon.”

Carer Of The Year - introduced and presented by deputy mayor David Ogg, Deputy to Carol Kaylor.

A spokesman said: “This is for the way she cares for her partner and supports other groups.

“She is also an active member of the Maldon and Dengie Stroke Support Group and has achieved so much to raise the profile of the group.”

Educator Of The Year - introduced and presented by councillor Flo Shaughnessy to Carl Wakefield, principal of Plume Academy.

A spokesman said: “He has greatly raised the standards at the school and is a great ambassador for the education system and an inspiration to many.

“Carl was pleased to accept the award on behalf of the whole team at the Plume Academy who have worked so cooperatively during the past year to support students and parents.”

Community Impact Award – introduced and presented by councillor Michael Pearlman to Samantha Young from the Longfields Medical Centre

A spokesman said: “She has delivered first-class support to the community during Covid in setting up and running the vaccination centre in Maldon so effectively.”

Long Service Volunteer - introduced and presented by councillor Andrew Lay to Geoff Skewes.

“A spokesman said: “This is for his volunteering at Wentworth Primary as a school governor.

“Geoff has provided great support and ensured quality training and learning for teachers and pupils going above and beyond in his capacity of volunteer.”

Best Business Contribution To The Community - introduced and presented by councillor Stephen Nunn to Olivia Rosenthall of Maldon Books and Lucie Walker-Hutt of Silo Zero Waste.

A spokesman said: “Oliva received the award for setting up an idealistic bookshop in Maldon and having very personal contact with all her customers, and for providing donations to the Salvation Army who were helping people in need.

“Lucie was also a worthy winner, the first shop of its kind in the town, creating an innovative offering to the community and providing a package-free shop in the town and making its mark ethically.

“Both of the new businesses are very welcome additions to the town centre.”