Members of a local community who have gone the extra mile to help and support those less fortunate than themselves have been honoured by Holt Town Council.

Eastern Daily Press: Holt and District Dementia Support Group volunteers collecting their award. Picture: Rodney SmithHolt and District Dementia Support Group volunteers collecting their award. Picture: Rodney Smith (Image: Rodney Smith)

Carolyn Burn from the Holt and District Community Cafe and the Holt and District Dementia Support Group were presented with Holt Honours Award for dedication to the community at the council's annual meeting on Monday.

Members of the public were invited to nominate a group or person who made a difference to Holt, undertaking community work or making a special contribution.

Mrs Burn, 47, was presented with the individual award for the work setting up and running the community cafe. The cafe, which has been running for two years, provides regular free lunches to help those who are experiencing social exclusion or economic deprivation.

Mrs Burn said: 'I'm absolutely staggered. It's not about raising money, it's just about connecting people and making sure that they're not lonely, making sure that they're support and they're in meaningful relationships with people.'

The cafe also hosted a Christmas dinner, reaching out to residents who may have been alone on Chirstmas day.

'I can't imagine spending Christmas anywhere else now,' Mrs Burn added.

The Holt and District Dementia support group was also recognised. And then dedicated the award to its volunteers.

The group started four years ago but now offers a range of free services including sport sessions, home visits and run the Poppy Cafe - a drop-in cafe giving support to dementia sufferers and carers,

Wendy Richley. 73, said: 'We are absolutely thrilled to bits. It's a great acknowledgment to the work that we do.

'We're delighted, We have a wonderful group of volunteers. It's helping those with dementia to maintain as much independence as they can in their community.'

The support group is now looking to introduce the first specialist dementia nurses, called admiral nurses, into north Norfolk.

Presenting the awards, Holt mayor Duncan Baker said: 'This year this has been absolutely incredible. I have to say that all the nominations that I have seen are worthy winners.'