Voluntary organisations and people who make a major contribution to their community and crime prevention have been given well-deserved recognition.

Around 170 guests attended the annual High Sheriff's Awards ceremony held at Hylands House, in Chelmsford, where trophies, certificates and grants totalling £31,487 were presented by High Sheriff of Essex, Simon Hall MBE.

First Stop Centre won the High Sheriff ’s Cup, which recognised its work over 36 years providing training and support for vulnerable and disadvantaged people from the Braintree area.

It also received a grant of £2,000 to run anger management and confidence building workshops.

Rachael Stone, manager of First Stop, said: “It was such a wonderful surprise to receive this award and recognition from the High Sheriff of Essex.

“We offer non-judgemental training and guidance in a supportive environment to help our clients make positive changes to their lives.”

Hope House Essex received a grant of £1,000 to help provide move-on accommodation for homeless people in Braintree.

Talk Listen Care also received £1,000 enabling it to continue providing counselling for vulnerable young people who are at risk of being not in education, employment or training (NEET) in Braintree.

The Awards came from the High Sheriffs’ Fund, which was established to give credit to community initiatives that address crime, community safety and anti-social behaviour.

It is managed by the independent charitable trust Essex Community Foundation (ECF).

Simon Hall, the 837th High Sheriff of Essex, said: “It has been a huge privilege to undertake this role, it has been tremendous fun, I have learned a lot and I hope I have done some good.

“This county is blessed with some extraordinary organisations, wonderful people and very dedicated volunteers who are committed to tackling crime and social problems.”