THEY are an inspiration to us all - to cheers and applause Glasgow's Community Champions of 2014 were crowned last night in a fabulous ceremony at the City Chambers.

These are the awards that honour the people who make Glasgow. The grand final was the culmination of months of work scouring the city in search of our unsung heroes, those who have gone above and beyond to help friends and neighbours.

It all started back in February in the North East of Glasgow, followed by events in the South and North West.

The evening began with the Spirit of Glasgow Award, a special presentation by Councillor Sadie Docherty, Glasgow's Lord Provost, and Glasgow City Council Leader Councillor Gordon Matheson, to all the organisations involved in the rescue efforts at the Clutha Vaults tragedy last year. It was followed by a one-minute applause.

Hosted by Clyde One DJ Diane Knox-Campbell, the evening celebrated the remarkable people who are the lifeblood of Glasgow.

"We have shared laughter and tears as we paid tribute to the amazing individuals and organisations who selflessly strive to make this city a better place to live and to work," said Evening Times editor Tony Carlin.

"And it is absolutely right and fitting that for the final such remarkable citizens are hailed at a ceremony in the City Chambers because this building is where honoured visitors are welcomed to the city every week. Nobody is more deserving of being welcomed as honoured guests than those we celebrate."

Winner of the Team Award was The Spark, an organisation that works with children and young people across the North East of the city, establishing positive relationships. It delivers education and counselling support to build confidence, improve behaviour and create more positive attitudes.

"This is a fantastic achieve-ment for the team," said chief executive Stella Gibson.

Mr Carlin also presented the Individual Award to Connie O'Hara, a community volunteer who has helped create positive change for the Riddrie area.

She has worked to provide children with improved facilities, achieved through the development of an outdoor multi-play area. Most recently she has been running the Wacky Wednesday Group which focuses on children, aged from five to 11, helping them have fun by playing games, participating in exercise and learning about healthy eating.

"I was surprised to win the local heat," she said. "I really didn't expect to win tonight as I was competing against the best of the city."

Councillor Marie Garrity, chairwoman of the North East Glasgow Community Planning Partnership presented the Public Services Award to Donald Dewar Day Care Centre, which has worked with the elderly of North West Glasgow for 19 years.

It arranges transport to bring the OAPs to the centre to enjoy activities, entertainment and lunch. Centre workers fundraise to pay for trips to museums, art galleries and theatres.

The Uniform Services Award is for those who go above and beyond the call of duty to make an outstanding contribution to our communities.

Chairman of the Glasgow Housing Association, Gordon Sloan, presented the award to community firefighter Colin Ferguson, who has worked for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service for 29 years and served across Glasgow.

He is a former member of 1980s band H20 and was nominated for his work in the community. Colin engages with young people to develop relationships which allow him to influence and protect youths from the dangers of fire. His personality, approach and determination have enabled him to reach these youths which in turn safeguards the community and its residents.

Meanwhile, area commander for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, George McGrandles, presented the Health and Wellbeing Award to Castlemilk Relaxation Centre.

Founded in 1994 by Josephine Livingstone, the centre provides therapy and treatments to people with a variety of needs. It has helped hundreds of people experiencing issues with alcohol, drug addiction, mental health issues, Parkinson's Disease and those who have suffered a traumatic incident.

The centre has reduced the number of clients who require medication and doctors' visits, with many returning to work.

Every day Castlemilk Relaxation Centre inspires.

"It was amazing to win," said volunteer Michele Higgins. "The centre is run by volunteers who give up their time because they love the community so much.

"If it wasn't for people using the centre it wouldn't be there. We nearly closed in January."

CHIEF Superintendent Andy Bates of Police Scotland presented the Sport Award to Glasgow Girls FC.

The club has been providing football tuition to girls and women in the North East of the city for the past six years.

This year the club has introduced a section for boys and created a free women's keep fit class for locals over 30.

The club has also orchestrated the new £80,000 facility in Budhill Park through fund-raising and sponsorship from local businesses and community members. It is also a key supporter of the Clutha Vaults football fundraising tournament which will take place this month.

"I don't think the girls really appreciate why they are here, they just love playing football," said Ryan Davidson, head coach of under 15s and head of youth development. "For the club it's a fantastic achievement. A lot is put in behind the scenes."

Maureen and Michael Ferrie were presented with the Senior Award by Mr Matheson in recognition of their work serving the community in Easterhouse for 50 years.

Through their hard work and commitment they have created a self-funded centre open to the whole community.

The couple have dedicated their lives to Greater Easterhouse Supporting Hands, providing a better quality of life to thousands of children, adults and senior citizens.

The Lord Provost presented the South Side-based Young Award to Glasgow Disabled Scouts for providing activities for young people with complex physical disabilities and life-limiting conditions. Many are wheelchair users.

"We have 60 volunteers and are really unique," said Michael Shanks, lead volunteer.

"We have incredibly disabled young people and for them to have a rapport with another young person is great."

Finally, the Lord Provost Award for Community Service went to Epilepsy Connections Fieldwork Team.

Gayle Weir was there with her two young daughters, Rachael and Olivia Cross, who saw their mum collect the award on stage.

"It's fantastic, we're absolutely thrilled to win," she said.