SEVEN Poole residents have been honoured for their outstanding efforts to help improve the lives of others.

Each was presented with a Community Champion Award by Mayor of Poole, Cllr Ann Stribley, who handed out two blue awards, one silver and four golds to members of the community who were nominated by friends, neighbours and fellow workers.

Each received a dolphin lapel pin and a certificate in the presence of close friends and family in the Mayor's Parlour.

Cllr Stribley said: "I am delighted that more than a decade on this scheme continues to recognise those people within our community who strive to make a difference to others' lives and make Poole such a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

"It is a real honour to have met such dedicated and selfless people and thank them on behalf of the community for their efforts."

A gold award went to Margaret Arnold, nominated for her extensive voluntary work with the Poppy Appeal, including being the main organiser for the Poole area, which saw a record £34,000 collected last year.

Dennis Broadhurst was also a gold recipient, having been president of the Poole branch of the Royal British Legion for more than a decade.

Center manager at Parkstone United Reformed Church, Mark Phillips, got gold for the help he and his team gave in providing Buckholme Towers School and Nursery a temporary home after the devastating fire in 2013.

The final gold recipient was Beryl Trebger, a familiar figure in Hamworthy Park picking up litter, who also regularly takes part in other voluntary work in the environment.

Silver winner Pam Coxon has worked voluntarily with Bridging Communities for six years, supports friends and neighbours and took a young family under her wing, teaching them to cook, budget and parenting skills.

Carol Brignell was presented with the blue award for her work as a Friend of Oakdale Junior School, which includes supervising five after school clubs, and introducing a daily fruit cart.

Blue winner Sue Downes has been treasurer of Hamworthy Liberal Club for two years, helping turn it into a real community asset housing a number of clubs and associations.

Nominations can be made by anyone who feels an individual or group should be recognised for their good work in the community. Visit poole.gov.uk/communitychampions for more information.