THE great and the good of the Tidworth and Ludgershall communities were recognised in an award ceremony last week.

Local dignitaries and councillors turned out to congratulate this year’s winners of the Tidworth Community Area Awards, held at The Wellington Academy last Thursday.

Principal guest for the evening was HM Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, Mrs Sarah Troughton, who presented the final award of the evening, the Lifetime Achievement Award, to Wiltshire Councillor Charles Howard.

Accepting the award following a commentary by Cllr Chris Williams, Cllr Howard said: “I am very very flattered by what you say – it’s all lies!

“Thank you very much, I am very honoured and pleased.”

Stalwart of the Ludgershall community Brian Sprigg was presented with the Community Area Shield and the Tesco Shield for his contributions to the community and his work with the older generation of the town.

Everleigh resident Sally Matton was honoured with the Wiltshire Constabulary (Paul Oatway) Shield for her work in the village and Colour Sergeant Wayne Moss won the Garrison Commander’s Award for organising a Christmas dinner for those in need in the Tidworth community.

Dr Mike Milner presented The Wellington Academy Heroes with the Schools Challenge Shield and Nell Light received the Tidworth & District Chamber of Commerce Cup for her home care company Home Instead, Andover and East Wiltshire.

The fundraising efforts of Lauren Norris were recognised with the Andover Advertiser Plate and Cllr Brian Pratt was presented with the Aspire Defence Services Trophy by Steve Grantham.

Tidworth Military Wives Choir and singer Nakiwe Mpinga also entertained the audience on the night.