DEDICATED volunteers from all over Caerphilly borough have been honoured at a prestigious ceremony as part of the inaugural Wales volunteers of the Year Awards.

Volunteers received certificates of high commendation from Lynn Clubb, assistant director of Gwent Association of Voluntary Organisations (GAVO) at Tredomen council chambers.

Gemma Lang from Caerphilly, who has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of bullying, had her efforts recognised.

Miss Lang, a victim of bullying herself, has appeared in Campaign several times since she founded the Full Stop 2 Bullying campaign and works with schools in the borough to tackle the problems experienced by youngsters.

She is an Ambassador for Childline Wales and runs a website aimed at victims of bullying and parents.

Another Caerphilly volunteer, Sherrall Morris, has been giving up her time to support Arts Projects across the Borough.

She has acquired the skills of digital storytelling and has recently been awarded funds to provide digital storytelling projects to disabled people.

Cefn Fforest pensioner, Fred Mumford, was a recipient of an award in recognition of his voluntary work for the Alzheimer's Society for a number of years. Mr Mumford, recently nominated as Blackwood's local hero in a Campaign competition, was commended for the care and support he gives to those who need it within his local community. Youngsters from St Ilan, who spent two years creating a wildlife garden at the school received a group award for their efforts. The St Ilan's Access Group of Caerphilly have carried out conservation and environmental work at Parc Penallta to make it more enjoyable for visitors. The Awards are part of a project to raise the profile of volunteering in Wales and are run by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) and supported by the Community Fund, the Welsh Assembly Government and PR agency Howell Petersen. Lynn says: "These awards recognise the enormous contributions made by volunteers within the Borough. "Volunteers work extremely hard to support their communities and it is important their efforts are being rewarded." Those interested in supporting their community through volunteering should contact Victoria Samuel at Caerphilly Volunteer information Centre on 02920 884 942.