THERE was not a dry eye in sight as acts of bravery and selflessness were celebrated at an annual community event.
The fourth Heart of Ulverston Awards were held with a glitzy ceremony at the Coronation Hall on Friday, where some of the town's most inspirational people were honoured.
Lee West, the father of schoolboy Josh, who tragically died from an asthma attack, was named Sports Volunteer of the Year for his work with Swarthmoor FC - and the courage he has shown losing his son.
He said: "This year has been a tough year for myself, our parents and our son Billy.
"It’s because of him I’m standing here to accept this award, carrying on to coach my team.
"He was, and still is the driving force to carry on.
"Because of Billy and the rest of the team, I have a reason to get up in the morning and I can’t thank you enough for that.
"This award isn’t for me - it is for my family, my team, and most of all for my boy Josh. Thank you all so much."
A Lifetime Achievement award was given to a shocked Ralph Spours, who was recognised for his contribution across the community.
Thanking everyone from "the bottom of his heart" he said: "It’s not often that I’m stuck for words, but this has come as a fantastic and wonderful surprise."
A joint award for Young Sports Performance of the Year made its way to Ulverston Orienteering Club and Mollie Mae Jeffrey.
Both were absolutely thrilled to be recognised and Mollie paid her own special tribute to her mum and dad.
The Courage Award went to Katy Galbraith, who has been battling brain tumours for the past 16 years, and her extended family whom have supported her.
When thanking everyone, the family described themselves as "just an ordinary family, living through extraordinary times."
Jan Brown was awarded Employee of the Year.
The GSK worker thanked her daughter Ruby, late husband Pete Brown and her company, and dedicated here award to people "going through their own cancer brawl" and their loved ones.
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Other winners included the Ulverston Inshore Rescue in the Community Group of the Year category and Stan Laurel pub boss, Paul Dewar, who was awarded the Citizen of the Year award, for 20 years of charity endeavour through his extreme sporting challenges.
Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Kyle Simm and Ulverston Canal Regeneration Group took the award for Environmental Volunteer.
An overwhelmed Margaret Aisbitt was given the Helping Hand award and Teacher of the Year went to Graham Carrick who described himself as "just doing his job."
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