TWO kindhearted school friends are celebrating after bagging prestigious volunteer awards.

Haiden Baker and Maddison Harris-Knell, both Year 10 students at the Bromfords School, in Wickford, won gongs at this year's annual Play Your Part awards, hosted by Basildon Council, and with Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Services.

Young carer Maddison, 14, helps her mum look after her younger brother, who has special needs, and her ill grandmother.

Haiden, also 14, was nominated in recognition for his help with an elderly man in Wickford, who is seriously ill.

He regularly visits him to keep him company and helps with everyday tasks, including getting his shopping.

Daniel Gee, headteacher at the school, in Grange Avenue, said: "These students did the school proud. It was humbling to hear how much time our students dedicate to building up people and causes within our community."

This year's Tony Guyon Cup, launched in memory of a dedicated volunteer, went to Susan Fennelly, who has spent the past 30 years supporting people with learning disabilities.

Susan, who runs the Saturday Club, based in Whitmore Way, Basildon, also won the Long Serving Volunteer category.

Richard Cook, who runs the borough's SOS Bus, was named Inspirational Role Model, while Gina Doyle, who gives up her time to teach children to swim and train lifeguards, won the Outstanding Contribution category.

Jonathan Barrow, 48, from Bowers Gifford, was honoured for setting up a patient-led mental health group following the closure of the Mind wellbeing centre, in Pitsea.

This year's Young Volunteer award went to nine year-old Star Perry, from Vange, who helps other young people learn martial arts.

Terri Sargent, councillor responsible for the environment and community, said: "I was delighted to attend the Basildon Volunteer Awards and meet many of the people who give their time to improving our community, and I congratulate all the winners and nominees. Through their hard work, commitment and achievements they are role models for Basildon and an inspiration to us all. Volunteering shows that a real community spirit exists in Basildon and is something we can build upon."