Bafta and Golden Globe-winning actor Brenda Blethyn spoke of her pride in the winners of the Thanet Community Awards.

The Ramsgate resident recorded a special video message of congratulations that was played to the winners during the awards ceremony on Tuesday (January 22).

The star of ITV show Vera and hit films including Secrets & Lies, Little Voice and Pride and Prejudice, said the winners were “wonderful people”, and urged them to “have one on me”.

She said: “I’m so sorry I can’t be with you tonight because it sounds like it’s going to be a great evening, but I just wanted to congratulate each and every one of the winners.

“You are doing such a fantastic job. Your efforts have made a real impact on the community. They’ve improved the quality of life for many people, and made Thanet an even nicer place to live.

“People were asked to nominate clubs, charities, good causes and individual volunteers they felt had made a real impact on the district.

“Over 130 nominations were received, which made it really, really difficult to whittle it down to the 20 charity winners and three volunteer champions.

“But many, many congratulations to all of you for your hard work, your dedication and – frankly – your generosity. It’s so much appreciated. You should be very proud of yourselves – I’m proud of you.

“So, congratulations to all of you who are there tonight. You are wonderful people, and I look forward to reading about it all in next week’s Thanet Extra.

“Enjoy your evening – and have one on me.”

Twenty good causes received Winners’ awards at the ceremony.

And six of them were chosen as Champion charities by judging organisations London Array, Westwood Cross and the Thanet Extra.

In addition, three individuals received Champion volunteer awards.

Read a full list of the awards winners, here.

And watch a video of the awards ceremony here: