The Mayor of Barnet commended the hard work and dedication of some of the borough’s citizens during a special ceremony at Hendon Town Hall.

They were given Civic Awards across a range of categories during the event on Wednesday (April 3) after being nominated by the public for the good work that they have done.

The Mayor of Barnet, Cllr Reuben Thompstone, said: “These awards celebrate the contribution that these wonderful people have made to their community.

“It is enriching to live in a borough that contains such selfless and motivated citizens, who work endlessly to make Barnet a better place for others.”

The winners were presented with framed vellums, while 11 runners-up received certificates.

The winners of the Lifetime Achievement Civic Award were:

Peter Cragg, who was recognised for many years of community work across multiple organisations, including Victim Support, Friern Barnet Voluntary Care for the Elderly and Age Concern Barnet.

Olive Dawes, who has served lunch for two days a week for Homeless Action at their North Finchley premises for the last 14 years.

She also works for Street Pastors and Rail Pastors, helping people in times of crisis, and even fosters pets for people who are in hospital through The Cinnamon Trust.

John Barry Russell, who was recognised for his dedication to the Finchley Sea Cadets since the young age of 11, recently helping them restore their unit in Finchley Central’s Long Lane.

The winners of the Outstanding Service to the Community Civic Award were:

Rosa Croci

Rev Peter Liddlelow

Jocelyn McAuliffe

Rev Helen Shannon

The Clitterhouse Farm Project

Maxine Weber.