COMMUNITY volunteers and local charities were the big winners at the North Ayrshire Provost’s Civic Pride Awards last Friday night.

The 2014 event at the Seamill Hydro was hosted by Provost Joan Sturgeon.

The awards pay tribute to the fantastic groups and individuals who have been recognised for the talent, hard work and commitment to their communities.

People across North Ayrshire nominated and voted for the groups and individuals who make a significant difference to the lives of those within their communities.

Local businesses showed their pride in North Ayrshire by sponsoring award categories, booking tables and donating prizes to the charity auction and raffle.

Provost Sturgeon was delighted with the success of this year’s event and at the close of the formal proceedings thanked the many organisations and companies who had contributed.

She also congratulated the 15 finalists and their families – and praised the dinner guests who had given so generously during the evening.

She said: “This year’s awards have been tremendous fun. Well, I say that but I must admit there is one horrible job I have to do.

“Choosing an overall winner is so difficult. I feel that every winner is special and that every one of them deserves a special prize.

“All the people invited up to the stage tonight have given that little bit more than others to their communities.

“But some people have gone even further – and that’s why I chose Jim and Bridie Lamont as the winners of winners.” After the handover of the final award, all the prizewinners assembled on stage for photographs before the evening was brought to a close with a ceilidh.

Winners: THIS year the Community Group of the Year Award went to a group who provide vital support to carers.

Allan West of sponsors Irvine Housing Assocation presented the award to the Three Towns Carers Group The Citizen of the Year Award was won by Jim and Bridie Lamont of Largs.

North Ayrshire Young Citizen of the Year 2014 was Sian Hughes.

Winner of the Arts & Culture Award were North Ayrshire Libraries’ Computer Buddies.

Triumphing this year in the North Ayrshire Sports Award category was Fitba4U