A KENDAL woman has become the first winner of Cumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner's Outstanding Citizen award.

The community awards set up by commissioner Peter McCall to recognise the commitment and tireless dedication of volunteers who 'go that extra mile' to help others. Mr McCall had encouraged members of the public to put forward names of people they felt deserved recognition.

Winners of the various awards were invited to a presentation evening at Barrow Police Station.

Diane Horner, of the Kirkbarrow Residents Association, picked up the main award in recognition of the contribution she makes to community engagement with the residents of Kirkbarrow.

The gathering was told that Ms Horner has made a big difference in helping to keep the local community safe, and through her hard work and commitment she has helped reduce anti-social behaviour and improve community spirit.

“Being nominated for and subsequently winning the Outstanding Citizen Award was a totally unexpected but lovely surprise, which is very much appreciated," said Ms Horner. “However, my work in our local community is only made possible with the help of both our partner organisations and small group of committee members, not least our vice chair, David Wilkinson, who has been there with me every step of the way.

“I feel both honoured and privileged to work with the residents of Kirkbarrow, especially the young people, whose enjoyment of the facilities and activities that we are able to provide is ample reward."

Mr McCall said: “I launched my community awards earlier this year as I wanted to be able to formally recognise the outstanding work carried out by people within Cumbria who help to keep their communities safe, in either a voluntary or professional capacity. People who go that extra mile to deliver services to the public, preventing crime, supporting vulnerable people and victims or deliver an outstanding service.

“I remain convinced that we all need to work together to keep Cumbria safe. My ethos is ‘we, not they’, and I am extremely grateful to those who epitomise this vision."