Awards ceremonies took place this week in Derry and Cookstown to honour residents for service in their communities.

In Derry, the Derry Journal People of the Year Awards were held at the Everglades Hotel.

Ray McGinley received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Dáibhin McConnell-Mailey and Rose-Marie Murray were named Inspirational Young Person of the Year.

Other winners included Lucia Gallagher for carer of the year, Margaret Doherty for business person of the year, Callum Warren as sports volunteer of the year, Banaz Ali as sportsperson of the year, Joan Keaveney as inspirational educator of the year, Victoria Harrison for arts and culture, Arlene Henry as community champion, Rebecca Keys for charity and fundraising, Linda Heaney as volunteer of the year, and Darren Leonard and Patrick Donaghey for outstanding bravery.

In Cookstown, Mid Ulster District Council held its second annual Arts, Culture and Community Awards at the Burnavon Theatre.

Winners included Samuel Cuddy as arts person of the year, Lucy Hawe as young arts person of the year, Dungannon Area All Stars Club as arts group of the year, Coalisland Training Services for the youth champion award, Lissan Over 60’s Club for the age friendly award, 1st Steps Women’s Centre Dungannon for equality and good relations, 33rd Derry Ballinascreen Scouts for community eco award, Mid Ulster Wellness Association for health and well-being, CRAIC for community safety, Trevor Lockhart as community champion, Michael Murray as volunteer of the year, and Michael Carolan for lifetime achievement.