More than 100 guests gathered to celebrate the work of those who give up their free time to help others.

The fourth annual Volunteer Swale Awards, organised by Swale council's community services team, were held at The Barnyard in Upchurch on Friday.

Eight winners were selected from dozens of nominations and each received a certificate and a trophy. Runners-up also received a certificate.

Those present heard how teenager Elysia Spall, who won the Young Swale Volunteer Champion of the Year award, thrives on volunteering as a trainee coach at Sittingbourne and Milton Swimming Club and also the Rainbows.

Her nomination said: “Elysia’s involvement at both the swimming club and Rainbows has meant that many children have grown and developed in the work and techniques that they are trying to improve.”

Another individual winner was Matthew Judd who, since he was 18, has dedicated nearly 10 years to voluntary work, mainly for hospital and community radio in Sittingbourne and Sheppey.

Groups to win included Friends of Milton Creek, whose members landed the environment award. They make weekly trips to Milton Creek Country Park to help maintain and improve the area.

Sheppey FM’s team of volunteers, who won the fundraising award, have raised or donated nearly £6,000 over the last three years for local and national charities.

Many of them have additional needs to contend with.

Its roadshow team attended more than 88 events in 2015 and 87 in 2016.

The nine-strong committee of Swale Seniors Forum was the team of the year, fulfilling their roles for people aged over 55 despite their own health issues and family concerns.

The top project prize went to the Sittingbourne Community Wardrobe, an initiative which has seen old school uniforms handed in at collection points, mended and then distributed to parents on low incomes.

The winner of the Community Inspiration Award was Canterbury Christ Church University student Jack Bee, who has been volunteering at Sheppey FM Community Radio for three years.

The audience was told: “He is always quick to help others and has an empathy with other young people suffering mental issues.”

A carer for his family, he also shaved his hair off for the Little Princess Trust so it could be made into a wig for children going through cancer treatment.