WORKERS from libraries and day centres were among Dorset County Council staff recognised at a special awards ceremony.

They were rewarded for their achievements at the third Pride Awards, held at Blandford School on Monday.

Colehill librarians Angela Wheeler and Kathy Warren, based at one of 20 libraries threatened with closure, were congratulated for giving outstanding customer service.

Wareham library manager Judith Leyman was named manager of the year while Juniper Day Centre, in Christchurch, picked up team of the year.

The award for ‘dignity, respect and kindness in care’ went to Siobhan Davies, from the learning disability team, with Amanda Hayes from Children’s Services named young employee of the year.

Dorset’s Partnership for Older People Project was the council’s chief executive David Jenkins’ choice for innovation, and Tom Bracey, from business change and efficiency, got the employee of the year.

Nominations came from colleagues and members of the public.

David Jenkins said: “In the difficult times we face in the public sector it is all the more important that we celebrate and recognise the outstanding commitment and enormous contributions made by our staff.”