Unsung heroes from the Shipley area have been honoured for their voluntary efforts at an awards ceremony tonight.

The winners included Billy Rickets, who has been Saltaire Cricket Club’s voluntary groundsman for more than 20 years and Jake Rowan, a young boy who has been helping his community in Burley-in-Wharfedale since the age of six.

Both were presented with commemorative plaques at Saltaire’s Victoria Hall, recognising them as Super Heroes at the third annual Shipley Area Community Heroes Awards.

In the group category, the 1st Shipley Scout Group, based in Windhill, were given a Super Heroes award to recognise the efforts of its leaders in building up membership from just six members to more than 80.

Scout Leader Andrew Manley, 33, of Windhill Old Road, said: “To be named category winners was a complete surprise because there were so many worthwhile groups that we honestly didn’t think we would win. It is a tremendous honour.”

Mr Rickets, 64, who is also vice chairman of Saltaire Cricket Club, was shocked to have won, despite 24 years working at the cricket club in Roberts Park.

A former sportsman himself, Mr Ricketts now spends about 40 hours a week keeping Roberts Park in pristine condition, while working full time as a baker.

“This award means everything to me,” he said.

“Sport is all about the enjoyment of the people, so it is a great pleasure for me to keep the park its best for the community.”

Jake, 12, who has been involved in projects in Burley-in-Wharfedale, including the Christmas lights display and the village water feature, collected his award from Bradford Councillor David Heseltine, chairman of the Shipley Area Committee, which organised the event.

Other nominees included the Bingley Sea Scouts and Friends of High Crags Primary School, as well as Emily Picken, who has been a leader at Baildon Methodist Church Guides since she was 14.

Paying tribute to all the nominees, Coun Heseltine said: “These awards are to celebrate our unsung active citizens. All 36 nominees have put a fantastic amount of effort and commitment into community life.”