TOWN heroes were commended at the annual Whitehill and Bordon town meeting, with the return of the council’s Contribution to the Community Awards.

The awards, last Monday at Whitehill village hall, aim to highlight the community spirit and efforts of people nominated for going above and beyond the call of duty to improve their town.

Winning the under-18 category was Mill Chase Academy pupil Ione Upfold, 15, in recognition of her “hard work and dedication” with the East Hampshire Youth Council, of which she’s been a member since age 12.

Mayor Sally Pond congratulated Ione and wondered whether, in a few years, she might find her way on to Whitehill Town Council.

And taking home the over-18 award was Carol Anne Dann for her work with the Royal Voluntary Service lunch club, which meets at Whitehill village hall.

Town council leader Adam Carew said her “drive and enthusiasm is fantastic” and thanked her for attracting new volunteers and increasing the number of users of this valuable service.

“Thank you very much, whoever nominated me. It’s such a shock,” she said.

Mr Carew presented Steve Johnson with a Special Recognition Award.

Mr Johnson, a war veteran, was the main organiser of an effort to get the town its own war memorial and Book of Remembrance, now in the town library. He is also the driving force in organising the Remembrance Service on November 11 each year at the town’s war memorial.

“Thank you all, you’re an inspiration to everyone,” said Mr Carew.