People who have made an outstanding contribution to their local communities and neighbourhoods have been honoured by social landlord Coastline Housing.

The Redruth-based housing charity presented its annual Customer At The Heart awards to people across Cornwall, celebrating the contribution of time and enthusiasm from customers, volunteers, and partner organisations.

Volunteer of the Year was Gerald Pitt, who has made a significant contribution to the Coastline’s Homeless Service in Pool.

He has worked closely with staff and clients to bring extra help and support to many people without a home or concerned about their current housing situation.

The award for Partnership Project of the Year was presented to Sue Bartlett from Active Plus, who manages the Coast to Coast area for Positive People, through the Lottery Community Fund and ESF funding.

Sue works with clients on Coastline’s work placement scheme to look for extra training opportunities and to reduce barriers to accessing them, such as course funding and transport costs.

A special award was given to Jed Fitzharris, outgoing chairman of Coastline’s Customer Scrutiny Committee, to acknowledge his contribution to ensuring services keep close to customer priorities and expectations.

Others receiving awards included John Hosking, Digital Achiever of the Year, following his extensive work with people needing help to get online.

Sue Roberts and Wendy James were jointly commended as Involved Customers of the Year for their ongoing work representing the views of many residents.

Allister Young, chief executive of Coastline Housing, and Derek Law MBE, chairman of Coastline group, had the pleasure of presenting the awards.

Derek said: “I am always incredibly impressed to hear about the work of people in our communities. Their contributions and the difference they make to lives around the Duchy every day show just how caring neighbours and local groups can be. Coastline is honoured to be able to help give them the recognition they deserve.”

Entertainment was provided by the Coastline Singers, a group of colleagues who come together in their spare time as part of Coastline’s wellbeing programme.

They performed a range of songs including traditional Cornish tunes.

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities at Coastline, please email getinvolved@coastlinehousing.co.uk, or visit the recruitment area at www.coastlinehousing.co.uk