CWMAMAN’S community heroes were commemorated in a special ceremony last week.

15 ordinary members of the community were presented with awards for the extraordinary work they do in Cwmaman.

The Community Group award, which recognises a group of people who have worked to help improve life in the community, was awarded to Shadows.

Shadows is a support group run by Louise Craik for people with mental health problems. The group meets at Cwmaman Community Centre every Monday evening.

The Young Community Hero award was presented to Lucy Parker to honour her achievement as a Welsh International rugby player who represented the country in the Youth Commonweath Games in the Bahamas in the summer.

The second Young Community Hero award was given to Llyr Green, who played junior rugby for Amman United RFC and is now part of Wales’ under 18 squad.

Three people were presented the Community Hero award, which recognises the achievement of a person aged over 18 who has made an outstanding contribution to the community.

The first was presented to Nevin Anthony, known as the Tadcu of Ysgol y Bedol, for his work speaking to the children, and for collecting and arranging the names on the school’s war memorial.

Nevin is also the president of the Garnant branch of the Royal British Legion.

The second was presented to Ian Llewelyn for his services as choirmaster of Cor Meibion Dyffryn Aman.

The final Community Hero award was awarded to Gareth Lewis, who helps run the OAP club and, as a former miner, welcomes people from mining backgrounds to the club.

The Child of Courage award pays tribute to a child who has shown enormous courage by overcoming an obstacle in their life, be that an illness or other traumatic experience.

This was awarded to Harriet Bingham, who after overcoming bullying in school, now supports young people who are being bullied.

The Community Sport Hero Awards were presented to Martin Luther Jones and Alun Rees for their lifetime of service to Amman United RFC and Cwmmaman United AFC respectively.

Finally, six people were presented with the Lifetime Achievement award, for individuals who have provided an outstanding commitment to the community over a long period of time.

Donna Williams was awarded for her leadership at Ysgol y Bedol before her retirement.

Cllr Anne Davies was awarded for her service to the community as postmistress at Glanaman.

Catrin Madge was awarded for her achievements as the leading light at Amman Valley Hospital.

David Williams - Dai the Baker - was awarded for his service running Siop y Pentre.

Mike Irons was awarded for his service at Garnant Pharmacy, and was recognised for recently over coming a vicious attack in the shop.

Finally, Brian Williams was awarded for his reliability in taxi services throughout the Amman Valley.

Mayor Pauline Barker said: “The scheme aims to recognise ordinary people for the extraordinary work they do in the community of Cwmaman.

“I am very proud to present these awards.”