TEENAGER Jasmine Miller may only be 15, but the Air Cadet manages to help her disabled mother with her young brother and sister.

And Jeff Samways, who has multiple sclerosis, has worked tirelessly to raise almost £250,000 to fight the condition, while foster carers Rosalie and Rod James have taken in more than 100 children over the last 32 years.

These are just some of 75 unsung heroes living in the Vale of White Horse who have been thanked to mark their contribution to the community.

More than 170 people were invited to a lunch at Abingdon Guildhall to hear the stories of those nominated and celebrate them receiving certificates from district council chairman Alison Rooke.

Jasmine, from Wootton, near Abingdon, picked up an award for her “wonderful work in supporting her family”.

The Bartholomew School pupil looks after her brother and sister, Eli, five, and Beatriz, three, for her mother, Teresa, who has a paralysed leg and hip and suffers back problems.

Jasmine said: “For me it was a complete shock to receive the award because I didn’t expect to be recognised for what I do.

“I do things like cook and clean most days, or help get my brother and sister up and ready for school.

“I just get on with it, there’s no point having any negative feelings towards it, even if I have to miss Air Cadets occasionally to help babysit while mum goes to the chiropodist. You just do it because it’s your mum.”

Mr Samways, of Finmore Close, Abingdon, was diagnosed with MS 17 years ago.

He volunteers helping fellow sufferers at Mayott House, in Ock Street, Abingdon, has raised thousands of pounds and is a former chairman of the Oxford and district branch of the MS Society.

After receiving his award the 58-year-old said: “It was such an honour when Alison Rooke spoke about me, I didn’t realise she was talking about me!

“I keep motivated by helping my friends, who are suffering worse than me.”

The James’ began fostering in 1977. Mrs James, 69, from Abingdon, received the award for her fostering but also for the support she provides to other carers.

She said: “It’s great to know the Vale appreciates what we do and it’s nice to get a bit of recognition. We’re looking after two little girls at the moment and for the time being we have no plans to give up.”

Debbie Thompson and Hazel Beaver received an award for volunteering at a youth café at Peachcroft Christian Centre, in Abingdon.

Mrs Thompson said: “It seems unfair for me to receive the award because there are so many volunteers at the centre.”

Mrs Rooke said: “For me, it was an honour and a privilege to be able to provide the unsung heroes of the Vale with these awards.”