It was a night which gave Breckland's unassuming heroes the recognition they never ask for, but fully deserve.

Carers, volunteers, police officers and community stalwarts were the stars of the show at an emotional Pride in Breckland Awards ceremony.

Watton's Queen's Hall was the venue for the awards, being held for the third time, which aim to highlight the work of those at the heart of our communities.

Breckland Council leader Michael Wassell said: 'It is inspiring. There are so many people doing things we are not aware of.

'The communities at the heart of Breckland demonstrate what a fantastic community spirit this district has. Tonight we have seen the efforts people will go to just to help a neighbour or a friend.'

The guest speaker was Sgt Duncan Slater, who was a member of the Walking for the Wounded team that reached the South Pole in 201. He became the first double-amputee to reach the Pole.

Sgt Slater lost both his legs after being in an explosion in Afghanistan.

He said: 'To be surrounded by people like this is just amazing. It is a shame every person in the category cannot get an award.

'I felt humbled to be asked to be here.

'There are people here who have dedicated their whole lives to helping others.'

A special gift was given to the youngest nominee Charlie Oulds, in year 3 at Mileham Primary School. He was born with a condition which stopped his spine growing straight. Despite a major operation last year he remained upbeat and took part in his school's Christmas show.

Do you know someone doing great things in your community? Email doug.faulkner@archant.co.uk

The winners

Carer of the Year – Cyril Ruffles, Rocklands.

Cyril always finds time to help others and devoted his life to his late wife Hazel, caring for her around the clock.

Runners-up: Laura Anderson, Dereham, and Enid Clarke, Carbrooke.

Greener Schools – Eco Bugs, Wayland Academy, Watton.

The Eco Bugs project is championed by Bev, who has worked tirelessly with her green fingered students to create a garden in the school grounds.

Runners-up: Attleborough Academy Norfolk and Matishall Primary School.

Outstanding Contribution to Sport – Melanie Floyd, Thetford.

In 2013 Melanie set up the Thetford Park Run to encourage people to get active and has seen it reach 1,400 members. She recently completed her 100th marathon.

Runners-up: Charlie Rutterford, Thetford, and Joe Dennis, Attleborough.

Volunteer of the Year – Gill Creed, Swaffham.

Gill has raised more than £250,000 for cancer charities since suffering from breast cancer aged 29.

Runners-up: George Northall, Swanton Morley, and Peter Treasure, Necton.

Outstanding Bravery Award – PC Paula Gilluley, PC Nathan Woodgate, PC George Healey, PC Jeremy Blamire and PC Christopher Curtis.

After arriving at a house fire ahead of the firefighters, these police officers braved the blaze to pull en elderly woman to safety.

Runners-up: Charlie Oulds, Mileham, and Maria and Riley Cork, Beetley.

Community Group of the Year – Iceni Partnership, Swaffham.

Don leads the small team which runs the Iceni Partnership in Swaffham and aim to enrich the lives of those in and around the town through various events.

Runners-up: ESCAPE Community Garden and Orchard, Swaffham, and Watton Thursday Club.

Good Friend/Neighbour – Eleanor Doyle, East Harling.

As well as caring for her husband Eleanor supports her neighbours making dinner and cakes for families in need.

Runners-up: Arthur and Ann Clark, Litcham, and Judy Leary, Swanton Morley.

Business of the Year – Adcocks, Watton.

Paul Adcock played an instrumental part in a campaign to help small businesses which faced difficulties with banks.

Runners-up: Corners Nursery, Hoe, and Breckland Lodge Hotel, Attleborough.

Lifetime Achievement Award – Jan Godfrey MBE, Carbrooke.

Jan's passion for the Wayland area has seen her playing key roles in a variety of projects throughout her life. She currently works at the Wayland Partnership, championing local communities every day. Her latest initiative is to make Watton a Dementia Friendly Town.

Runners-up: Cliff Amos, Attleborough, and Mike Garrod, Garvestone.