THREE cheers were sounded at the Nailsworth Town Awards to honour mayor Steve Robinson.

Cllr Robinson announced that it would be his last civic reception, as he would be stepping down this month and said it had been 'an honour to serve such a vibrant town'.

As mayor he has taken on many challenges including the threat of introducing parking charges, speeding traffic on the A46 and the closure of the youth centre and the library.

At the awards ceremony on Monday, May 13, Cllr Jonathan Duckworth said: "It has been a difficult period for the town but Steve did what he believed was right.

"He has given the council a face in the town through his meet the mayor sessions at the market and has not been afraid to sound out the town's views.

"He has made Nailsworth a better place and we will see the benefits of Steve's time as mayor for a long time to come."

Hundreds attended the ceremony at the town hall, which saw siblings Emily and Tom Robbins receive the Youth Award for their involvement in the Queen's Diamond Jubillee celebrations.

Tom, nine, and Emily, 12, took their ideas to the mayor after visiting the Nailsworth Archives and seeing a poster detailing events held to celebrate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee.

Choirmaster Geraldine Brown received the Nailsworth Festival Arts Award and Pete Webb, chairman and former player at Shortwood United Football Club received the Sports Award.

Pete has been chairman for 30 years after retiring from playing due to an injury.

He has overseen the development of the club's facilities and has helped raise the income of the club as well as its position in the league.

"His enthusiasm and willingness is an inspiration to everyone. He is Mr Shortwood," said Cllr Robinson.

The Mayor's Award went to town crier Tony Evans - a former Nailsworth mayor, town councillor and district councillor.

He has represented Nailsworth in town crier competitions across the UK and abroad and this year is hosting the championships in his hometown.

"I intend to carry on crying for as long as I can," he said.

"I want to be the oldest town crier in the country."