Community volunteers were recognised for their hard work during an awards ceremony.

Gordon Finch and Bruce Heath, both 78, were handed certificates by outgoing mayor Shirley Diver during the Mayor’s Civic Awards.

Mr Finch has been involved with Halstead swimming club since the Seventies and served as chairman for 21 years.

He has since gone on to be named as president and continues to help teach people to swim.

Mr Heath was recognised for his selfless work keeping Halstead’s streets clean.

He has spent many years voluntarily picking up litter around the town.

Mr Finch said: “I was totally surprised and honoured that the mayor and Halstead Town Council had thought of me.”

Mr Finch’s wife, Ruth, added: “Both Gordon and Bruce knew nothing of their awards until their names were announced in church.

“The funny thing is that these two gentlemen are friends and grew up together, going to the same school and the mayor chose to honour them on the same day.”