COMMUNITY champions across Somerset have been recognized for going the extra mile.

This year’s BBC Radio Somerset Make A Difference Awards saw seven people and one dog awarded for the work they do to help others in their community.

The awards night was held at Quantock Lakes in Nether Stowey on September 22, with BBC Radio Somerset presenter Claire Carter hosting.

Martock man Gordon Swindells was the winner of the green award for his work as a volunteer flood warden coordinator.

Mr Swindells raised concerns for the safety of motorists and school pupils in the flood prone village which saw him develop a flood alleviation scheme as well as recruit 16 other volunteer flood wardens.

Gordon Swindells receiving the award from BBC Radio Somerset’s Andy Bennett Picture: BBC Radio Somerset

Lyn Foley from Stoke-sub-Hamdon was awarded the great neighbour award as she runs tea clubs, lunch clubs and organises Christmas day lunches for her neighbours.

A new award to this year’s proceedings was the animal award, which was awarded to therapy dog, Bracken, who has been visiting the Manor Care Home in Bishops Hull, near Taunton, every Tuesday for six years to spend time with the residents in their rooms.

Bracken at the awards night Picture: BBC Radio Somerset

Bruton teen, Ruby Andrews, was awarded the bravery award after overcoming her debilitating Rheumatoid Arthritis which affects her life on a daily basis.

11-year-old Mia Shore was the winner of the fundraiser award after she ran every day in January in memory of a family friend who had passed away, raising more than £12,000.

The carer award was given to Ethan Smith who looks after his younger brother Sol who has Down’s syndrome as well as other health problems.

Cath Morrison from Chard was awarded the carer award for her involvement in setting up the Chard Community Hub which hosts a community fridge and pantry as well as arts and craft sessions.

The community award went to Highbridge-based counselling charity In Charley’s Memory which has helped more than 2,000 children and young people across the county with their mental health.