Heroes from across Oxford were rewarded for their exceptional work for many different communities and projects in the city.

The Lord Mayor of Oxford, Bryan Keen, with the recipients of the Certificate of Honour at the Town Hall

The outgoing Lord Mayor of Oxford, Bryan Keen, described the 11 winners as inspiring before he gave them signed and framed Certificates of Honour at a reception last night at the Town Hall (Wed 18).

There with friends, family, and those that had put them forward, the nominees said they were pleased and honoured to receive such recognition.

Hafsa Akkas, who shared her certificate with Suna Bibi, said it had been a big surprise to be nominated for her work with the Bangladeshi community.

The pair were being rewarded for many areas of their work, including outreach work with drugs awareness. Mrs Akkas said: "We decided we should go and visit each family individually. If we had just sent a questionnaire, they would not have answered it.

"When we had spoken to them, it opened a new door for us. I feel really honoured that they should trust us."

Amanda Richens, of Divinity Road, was nominated for her work with the Oxford Wheels Project by the parents of children who use the project's skate ramps, in Meadow Lane, east Oxford.

She said: "Often the parents have no idea what I do so for them to take it on themselves to nominate me is really nice."

Her son Jack Richens, 25, chairman of the project, said: "I'm extremely proud of her. It is because of her that the Wheels Project has curried so much favour with the residents near the ramps."

The certificate scheme, set up in 1988, aims to recognise the efforts of people whose hard work often goes unnoticed in the community.

The winners were nominated by the public, before a final selection was made by a panel made up of representatives from the council, including the Lord Mayor, voluntary and community groups, trade unions and business.

Mr Keen said: "I always find the dedication and commitment of people in this city inspiring. I feel privileged to recognise the contribution those receiving awards have made to our city by giving up their time and energy to help others."