Charities from across Kent have been thanked for the valuable work they do at the first ever Kent Charity Awards.

The ceremony served to showcase the hard work voluntary groups undertake, to make the lives of others better.

Judges' chairman Susan Robinson said: “A lot of people rely on the charity sector, but don’t fully understand what it’s delivering.

“It’s important for them to be recognised and realise that they’re being appreciated.

It gives them that motivation to go back, carry on doing what they’re doing and feel good about themselves.”

Kent Search and Rescue, a voluntary organisation that helps in police searches for missing people won the overall Charity of the Year award.

Video: Graham Stothard reports from the Kent Charity Awards

Paul Lewis, Chairman of KSAR said: “It’s an absolute honour to be awarded with this award.

“It’s a fitting tribute to our members who tirelessly give up their time for KSAR throughout the year.

Other groups winning prizes included Computers 4 Africa in the Heritage and Environment category and Abigail’s Footsteps for the care category.

Winners of Animal Charity of the Year were Large Breed Dog Rescue whilst Catching Lives stole the show in the Community category.

The children’s charity of the year award went to chYps Children’s Hospice at Home.