Dudley's unsung heroes rewarded

Five unsung heroes who work tirelessly for their communities have been honoured at a glitzy awards ceremony in Dudley.

Mayor of Dudley Councillor Pat Martin presented the winners with special handcrafted glass trophies and certificates last night.

The Duncan Edwards Award for Sport was won by Rita Vanes, who founded Dudley Ladies Running club.

The winner of the Frank Foley award for Community Spirit was Allan Miles, who is chairman of the Dudley Federation of Tenants and Residents Association.

Dudley borough artist Steve Field, of Dudley, was presented with the Cedric Hardwicke Award for Art.The 55-year-old, of Stoubridge, has been behind a number of landmark pieces of public art at gateways to the borough.He helped set up the Dudley Southern Bypass sculpture trail and has worked in schools, college and hospitals.

The Thomas Attwood Award for Education was won by former headteacher of Thorns Community College, Fred Marshall.The 69-year-old school governor has worked tirelessly to promote learning and education across the borough.He is also a former member of Dudley Council's community education development unit, which worked to encourage adult learning.

The Mayor's Award, which was decided by public vote, went to Mary Stevens Hospice volunteer Rosemary Pitt, of Alveley, near Kidderminster.