Four community heroes have been honoured for their selfless service to their areas.

Janne Bishop, Daphne Walton, Kelly Foreshew, and Brian McTear were recognised in the first round of the Unsung Heroes Awards.

The awards celebrate individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to improve their communities.

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Ms Bishop was praised for her dedication to memory care.

She is the driving force behind a singing club in Bourton, which provides a lifeline for people with memory issues.

She also co-leads the weekly 'Coffee, Cake, and Chat' group in Great Rissington.

Ms Walton was recognised for her lifelong advocacy for children, having transformed youth activities in Moreton and Chipping Campden as a Girlguiding leader.

She founded the Moreton-in-Marsh Rainbows and leads the Brownie units in both of the Cotswold towns.

Ms Foreshew was lauded for her work as a carer in Lechlade, going above and beyond to provide elderly residents with the support and companionship they need.

Mr McTear was honoured for his 16 years of service, including over a decade as chair of the Kingscote Parish Village Hall Committee.

His leadership is credited with shaping the community, creating a space where residents can gather, celebrate, and connect.

Councillor Nikki Ind, chair of Cotswold District Council, said: "I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who submitted a nomination for the first round of our Unsung Heroes Awards.

"We received 25 nominations in this first round and reading through the inspiring stories was both humbling and uplifting, and selecting the winners was no easy task.

"Congratulations to Janne, Daphne, Kelly, and Brian for being chosen as our inaugural awardees.

"Your dedication and hard work enrich the lives of so many in our district.

"We are incredibly grateful for all that you do."

The next round of nominations is now open, and the council is encouraging people to recognise those people who are making a difference in their communities.

The winners will be announced at the next full council meeting on Wednesday, November 27, where the chair will present their awards.