>> Read the report in Saturday's Sunderland Echo

The winners are...

Chairman's Award for Volunteer of the Year Under-18
This award recognised those who have given outstanding service to the voluntary sector, by supporting a local group or delivering a voluntary service in the community.
Winner: Stephanie Mason, 17, from Blackhall.
Runners-up: Jack Fletcher, 15, from Peterlee
Thomas Dawson, 16, from Horden.

Volunteer of the Year for Over-18
Winner: Jean Dixon MBE, from Haswell
Runners-up: Mabel Holdcroft, Wheatley Hill
Wendy Baker, Seaham

Environmental Award
This rewards the efforts of individuals or groups in improving the local environment.
Winner: Coast and Countryside Volunteer Rangers
Runners-up: Easington Community Science College Eco Team
Castle Eden Dene Volunteer Wardens

Group of the Year
The category recognises the contribution of a community group in delivering activities that improve the lives of local people.
Winner: Dawdon Adventure Club
Runner-up: Coast and Countryside Vounteer Rangers
Easington SureStart Funky Friends

Youth Group of the Year
This was set up for youth groups with members under the age of 18, with all those nominated having a positive impact on improving activities and services for other young people in their community.
Winner: Dene Team Conservation Group (which works in Castle Eden Dene National Nature Reserve)
Runners up: Easington Community Science College Eco Team
South Hetton Youth Shelter Group

Environmental Business Award
The title recognises the commitment of business which go beyong their statutory obligations to support the community and maintain a clean environment.
Winner: Mitchells@Westlea, Seaham
Runners up: East Durham Homes
The Village Florist, Horden

The David Pattison Achiever of the Year Against All the Odds Award
Winner: Thomas Jackson
Runners up: Anne Williams, Peterlee;
Wendy Baker, Seaham.

Tidy Ted Award
This is made to a school for its commitment to recycling and to improve their grounds and environment.
Winner: Dene House Primary School, Peterlee
Runners up: Deaf Hill Primary School
Cotsford Infant School, Horden