THE great and good of Bromyard have been recognised for their contribution to the town in this year’s Distinguished Citizens Awards.

The annual awards, organised by Bromyard and Winslow Town Council, recognise volunteers who give up their free time for the benefit of the town.

John and Sylvia Silver, who run the Falcon Hotel, received their award for contributing in many ways, from sponsoring events to writing and producing plays.

Town crier Peder Nielsen, who recently won the European Guild of Town Criers championships, was recognised for organising Bromyard International Festival of Town Criers and other duties.

Mary Seldon was decorated for her roles in producing the monthly Off the Record magazine, chairing the Bromyard and District Local History Society and organising the annual Herefordshire Marmalade Festival.

Queen Elizabeth Humanities College assistant head David Kemp received recognition for organising trips and events for pupils, as well as raising thousands of pounds for the repair of the St Peter’s Church organ.

The church’s organist, Carol Broadhead, was also honoured.

Betty Whiteley was acknowledged for her time given to Bromyard in Bloom and Bromyard Town Junior Football Club’s under-11s coach, Brian Hall, received the award for his service over the last five years.

Lawrence Hall was honoured in the junior award for providing lighting at many of the Conquest Theatre’s shows. The awards will be presented at the Falcon Hotel on Sunday, September 23.

A number of people were also honoured in the Civic Pride Awards, including Alan Clark, Chris Watkins, Sally Freckle, Barbara Dukes and Hannah Shakespeare. QE Humanities College head Mike Goodman and Stuart Diplock completed the list.