SOME of the hardest working members of the Bromyard community have been recognised in this year's Distinguished Citizen Awards - dubbed as the town's very own 'honours list.'

A wide range of people has been rewarded, including charity fund-raisers, youth workers, teachers and postmen.

This is the third year that the awards have been run and, according to town clerk Mike Cresswell, what makes them special is the way in which the nomination system works.

"The winners weren't put forward by councillors, but were suggested by local people," he said.

Among those celebrating this year are Iris Parry, who has been working in the area as a home help for 36 years and Olive Allsop, a sustained supporter of the towns' elderly people.

Esme Legg is honoured for her service to Bromyard hospital while Leighton Edwards finally receives recognition for all his fund raising on behalf of the British Legion.

A familiar face in the town for 40 years was Keith Lane, who toiled tirelessly as a postman - often going out of his way to perform 'extra services' for needy people.

And generations of children in the town have come to know Pat Lloyd, not just for her 26 years of service to St Peter's school but also for her energetic work with the local Brownies.

Meanwhile, community all-rounder Joy Mesdag is applauded for her efforts for the League of Friends and on behalf of blind people.

And as a poignant memorial to the late Martha Verinder, who died recently, a posthumous award is to be given in recognition of her work for the hospice and Bromyard gala.

All the winners will be presented with an illuminated scroll at a glittering ceremony this September.

Mr Cresswell was full of praise for the victors.

"It's great that we can show our appreciation to these people for their commitment to the community," he said.