Those who battle adversity everyday, tireless community stalwarts and eco-warriors have been honoured at a prestigious awards ceremony.
Broadland District Council's inaugural Community at Heart Awards recognised worthy winners in 10 categories including carer and personal courage of the year.
More than 130 guests gathered at The Space, in Sprowston, last night to listen to moving tales of courage and determination from the Broadland area.
They included that of James Morrison, whose bravery won him the young person of the year award.
James suffers from a rare kidney condition, scoliosis, hypertension, pain syndrome, hypermobility syndrome and leg length syndrome, leaving him in severe pain every day, but manages to maintain his sunny outlook and loves helping his sister with her homework.
Speaking at the ceremony, EDP editor Nigel Pickover announced that all finalists would be put before judges in our Stars of Norfolk and Waveney Awards.
He said: 'As finalists for this evening's awards, you are testament to the fact that we have some of the most caring, courageous and selfless people in Norfolk in our midst.'
He described the finalists as our 'real heroes and heroines'.
Andrew Proctor, leader of Broadland District Council, said: 'When we sat down to go through all the entries, we were overwhelmed at how many people like yourselves give so much back and put so much into your communities.
'The standard of entries was very high and, as always with these things, while there can only be one outright winner, in this case we feel that every one of you is truly a worthy winner.'
The awards received sponsorship from D & F McCarthy, based on Broadland Business Park.
Do you have a story about a local hero we should be writing about? Email reporter Lauren Cope on lauren.cope@archant.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here