Community champions receive Civic Awards

UNSUNG heroes from North Solihull were among those recognised at the borough's Annual Civic Awards last month.

Andy Warmington, who set up the hugely successful Chelmsley Squash Academy and Stella Aston, who has been a member of Castle Bromwich Singers for the past 50 years, were among those honoured.

Andy, whose efforts since 2010 have encouraged more than 4,000 youngsters to get involved with the racket game, was recognised for his contribution to local sport.

Stella meanwhile, who won the Creative Arts category, has been a member of the Singers ever since they were first set up in 1967.

A judging panel of councillors, officers and representatives from community groups picked out the winners, who were invited to meet the Mayor of Solihull, Coun Stuart Davis, to be presented with their awards.

The Mayor said: "I am very lucky that I get to meet all these inspiring Solihull residents, the evening was truly one of the highlights of my Mayoral year. 

"I was delighted to be able to thank the winners for their dedication, hard work and enthusiasm into making Solihull a brilliant place to live."

• Read our interview with Stella in this month's edition of Other Side of Solihull.