Unsung heroes from Swindon's voluntary sector have been recognised in a special award service.

Voluntary organisations and individual volunteers received certificates of merit for their vital contributions within the community.

The third annual award service was organised by Swindon Volunteers an organisation which supports and finds volunteers in conjunction with Whitbread.

Nominations came from individual recipients of volunteer help and larger organisations.

Spokeswoman Sarah Codd said the awards were a chance to thank people for the work they had done.

Individuals were judged on:

n Benefit of their work to the community.

n Personal achievements.

n Personal commitment.

Organisations were judged on:

n Effectiveness and involvement of volunteers.

n Commitment and support given by the organisation.

n Influence of volunteers within the organisation.

The panel unanimously agreed first prize of £100 should go to Gunter Janisch.

Gunter is a founder member of the Swindon Communication Project.

The project provides and installs PCs in the homes of physically and mentally disabled people so they can communicate through the internet and email.

Wheelchair user Gunter is largely responsible for installing the equipment and staff say without his expertise the project would not be the success it is.

Gunter, 51, of West Swindon, said: "It was a complete surprise but great to be noticed.

Sarah added: " Gunter has been invaluable to the charity since it started. He has very much a background which makes it even better to see him win the award."

Runner up in the category, 18- year-old-Natalie Coady received a certificate for her work with the Forum of Children United for Success.

Sarah said: "At such a young age Natalie has made a real difference to the lives of young people in the care of social services."

Winner of the organisation award was Homestart Swindon a befriending service for young families in the town.

Roundabout Cafe at the Pilgrim Centre was awarded runner up status for supporting volunteer workers with special needs.

Certificates were also presented to Helen Bridewell, Mike Gloyne, Kevin Smith, Jose Walklate, Frank Woods, Sue Brazier.

The awards were presented by Sandy Martin of Wiltshire Sound.