“Completely floored” – that was the reaction from this year’s Pride in Medway champions, who could not believe they had won.

Unsung heroes of the Towns were given their moment in the spotlight at the awards on Saturday night, with the overall crown going to One Big Family Helping The Homeless, run by Liz and Darren Shaw, from Chatham.

Darren said: “After hearing everyone’s stories, there were so many amazing people, we are completely floored.”

Liz added: “It feels unreal. I’m expecting to wake up any moment and find out it hasn’t happened. I really didn’t think we had a chance of winning. But I’m so grateful. We are just a small part of this, we have a team of volunteers and amazing donors.”

The couple set up the scheme two years ago after seeing an increase in people living on the streets. They provide warm clothing, food and other essentials to rough sleepers, going out several nights a week to do what they can, and run a weekly soup kitchen. The evening was hosted by Meridian newsreader Sangeeta Bhabra and children’s television presenter Phil Gallagher.

Phil, who plays CBeebies’ Mister Maker, was a big hit with the young heroes – who included Jack Gove, whose quick thinking stopped a fire destroying his home.

Others were Megan Cole, who leapt into action when her mum had a stroke, Thomas Boyle, who saved his mum when she suffered an asthma attack, and fundraisers Molly Tuffin, Lewis Brooke and Lucy Allen.

Awards were also presented to winners chosen by the Pride in Medway sponsors.

The Medway Messenger award went to mother and son Kelly and Tommy Fraser, who have raised awareness of early onset dementia after husband and dad Ian was diagnosed with the devastating disease.

Other sponsors’ awards went to the Medway Towns Footpath Group, student fundraiser Jonathan Small, MidKent College students, volunteer Deborah Simpson, GP Dr Farnaaz Sharief and young fundraiser Jessica O’Hanlon.

See Thursday’s Medway Messenger for more pictures from the night.