PEOPLE who have enriched the life of Ledbury were recognised at a ceremony marking National Volunteers Week.

Rosemary Speck, of Ledbury Community Voluntary Action, said Volunteer of the Year awards were given to nominated individuals.

Mrs Speck's task is to find volunteers for community groups in the area, from Ring and Ride and Age Concern to Urchins Tots to Teens.

She said Ledbury was enjoying perhaps its record year for volunteering: "Last year, 120 new volunteers passed through, and I'll have more than that by the end of the year. It is increasing."

In total, five Volunteer of the Year certificates were presented this week.

One went to Angela Pugsley, a volunteer at Age Concern for her dedication to befriending the elderly. She was nominated by Ledbury Age Concern.

She was presented with her certificate at the charity's Bye Street office yesterday (Thursday) afternoon by Rachel Park, a member of Ledbury Youth Needs Expressed, who won an award last year.

There were also awards for two John Masefield High School pupils. Lisa White and Emma Sturge, both 15, were nominated by Urchins, for their work in helping with fundraising and the setting up of a children's garden at Ledbury Community Hospital, where Urchins is based.

They were also presented with their awards on Thursday afternoon.

Andy Ward, chairman of the Ledbury Tourist Association was nominated for an award by the Ledbury Tourist Information Centre.

He has successfully raised the profile of the town through his involvement with events including this year's Ledbury English Festival.

Tom Deane, chairman of Ledbury in Bloom, also gets an award for his efforts on behalf of the town. He was also nominated by Ledbury TIC, and both Mr Deane and Mr Ward were scheduled to be presented with their certificates at a special ceremony in the TIC today (Friday).