THREE “outstanding” citizens were honoured by Witney Town Council at a special awards ceremony.

At the annual civic reception at the Langdale Hall, Witney, people who have gone the extra mile in helping their community were presented with flowers, certificates and specially-engraved pens.

Residents and councillors nominated those who they felt deserved recognition with winners invited to Friday’s event, hosted by town mayor Jeanette Baker, The Young Citizen of the Year Award went to 19-year-old Perry Kerslake.

The former Wood Green School pupil was given the accolade for the work he does helping children’s youth groups at the youth hub in Witan Way, Witney, and for organising this summer’s Lib Fest in memory of Liberty Baker, who tragically died in June 2014 after being hit by a car.

Speaking after the ceremony Mr Kerslake said: “It’s absolutely amazing. I didn’t really expect it.

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“The youth groups are places where people can come to a safe area, learn new things and meet new people.

“Liberty’s death helped inspire me to get involved in helping young people as she was very committed to the youth group herself and helped raise a petition when it was threatened with closure.

He said: “She was such a lovely person and would help anybody at any time no matter what. She was just a great person to speak to.”

Former nurse Sue Jones, 60, was given the Outstanding Service to the Community Award for her work as a volunteer at Tower Hill School over the past few years.

Tower Hill headteacher Tracey Smith nominated Miss Jones because of her “positive attitude” helping pupils with their reading skills. She has also helped out on school trips and was praised for “enhancing the school environment” by assisting staff.

The third award went to Sharon Hambidge who was presented with the Witney Citizen of the Year Award for founding Pathways, a social activity group for people with learning difficulties.

She has worked with people with learning difficulties for 25 years, even inviting them to join her for family days out and at home, sharing Christmas with those who had no homes to go to and has taken Pathways members on holiday.

Councillor David Snow, who nominated the 56-year-old, said: “What makes her stand out is her ability to just get on and do it – and inspire others to do the same.”

Certificates were also awarded to 10 other people further members of the community in recognition of their achievements in the community.

They were Kieran Butler, Brian Conroy, Louise Conroy, Derek West, Lesley West, Patrick Churchill, Martin Collett, Brendon Cross, John Carr and Nigel Phillips.