RECIPIENTS of this year s Dunmow Town Awards gathered to receive their certificates on Thursday. The awards were given to Peggy Baines, The Dunmow Majorettes and Norman Billett in recognition of their contributions to the town. Mayor Frank Silver presente

RECIPIENTS of this year's Dunmow Town Awards gathered to receive their certificates on Thursday.

The awards were given to Peggy Baines, The Dunmow Majorettes and Norman Billett in recognition of their contributions to the town.

Mayor Frank Silver presented the winners with their certificates saying the panel had spent more than two hours debating who would be the winners; the longest time they'd spent on reaching a decision that he could remember.

Peggy Baines won her award for her voluntary work within the community. The associations she has helped include the Dolphin Swim Club, Dunmow Christian Care Group, and Dunmow and District Stroke Group.

"I was so very, very happy when I got the phone call telling me I'd won," said Mrs Baines. "But I couldn't have done it without my friends and I would like to say thank you to all of them."

Dunmow Majorettes were represented by troupe organisers Kathy Cohen and Betty Baker. The troupe received its award for being ambassadors for the town having performed dance routines in Dourdan, France, and twice appearing on Channel 4's Big Breakfast.

Mrs Baker said: "We're the first group to win this award and we are all chuffed.

"This is an award that says thank you to all of the mums, dads and other volunteers who have helped the troupe over the years."

Norman Billett, founder and chairman of the Dunmow and District Stroke Group, was given his award for services to the group.

"We don't do these jobs for the reward but it is nice to be recognised," he said.

Stroke group honorary treasurer Stuart Wright, said: "Everyone was very pleased for him. He's a deserving winner is our Norm."

Pictured from left; Kathy Cohen, Betty Baker, mayor Frank Silver, Peggy Baines, mayoress Blanche Silver and Norman Billett.