THIS year’s new-look Local Hero Awards was bigger and better than ever before as South Wiltshire and West Hampshire’s finest were celebrated in style at The Stones Hotel, near Amesbury.

There were a few tears and some standing ovations as the winners were announced and the audience got to hear some truly inspirational stories at the ceremony last Friday night.

Guests were treated to a champagne reception and delicious threecourse meal at the black-tie event.

After-dinner entertainment was provided by girl band Stooshe, who played four tracks including their 2013 single Black Heart and their cover of Waterfalls by TLC.

Bill Browne, publisher of the Journal, said he was thrilled with this, the 13th year of the awards.

“It was truly a celebration of achievement across a wide section of the community,” he said.

“The standard of entries was extremely high again this year, so those chosen as one of our 13 winners were really exceptional.”

Spire FM managing director Ceri- Hurford Jones said on the night that the finalists had “shown great courage in so many ways and we are truly indebted to you all for making a real difference to the lives of so many people in our area”.

He thanked all those who “took the time to make nominations and also our amazing judges and sponsors”.

Each of the 13 winners had an incredible tale to tell, whether it was selfless devotion to others, fearless bravery in the face of danger, or tireless fundraising for worthy causes.

Judges struggled to choose the winners after Journal readers and Spire FM Listeners sent hundreds of nominations in.

And each of the winners also received a £100 cheque to give to the charity of their choice.

Amanda Burnside, principal of Wiltshire College, the premier sponsor of the event, said: “Unsung heroes make the world a better place and are an inspiration to us all.

“These awards are closely linked to the ethos of Further Education colleges of inspiring students and changing lives.”