APPLAUSE rang out as a young carer who campaigns on behalf of others was among the inspirational people who were last night crowned Community Champions.

James Fraser, 17, was given the Young Award for his commitment to raising awareness which has seen him speak at the Scottish Government and make a hard-hitting film.

At the fifth of this year's Community Champion events the Evening Times once again recognised the efforts of those who make a difference in their community - and last night it was the turn of the people in the South West.

Hundreds of people packed into Govan Community Fire Station to hear the heartwarming and uplifting stories of people who dedicate their time to helping others.

James, who was supported on the night by his mum Phyllis Fraser, who he cares for, and his proud gran Anne Bryson, joined Greater Pollok Carers Centre in 2011.

Understanding the difficulties faced by other young carers, the teenager from Mansewood, became a voice for them both at home and in school.

James, who has dreams of becoming a radio DJ, is now the ambassador for the Pollok Centre.

He said: "I am absolutely delighted to win - I really didn't expect it.

"I am really passionate about giving a voice to young carers it is really nice to receive an award for what I do."

Mum Phyllis added: "I am so proud of James and ­everything he does - he is an inspiration."

There were a total of nine winners on the night and picking up the Team Award was the South West Car Scheme.

The project was established last year by volunteers who drive local residents to doctors and hospital appointments.

So far they have helped 374 people.

Pensioner Mary Nicol, who uses the service, said: "I would be lost without them. I can't use public transport and the drivers take me to all my appointments."

Development worker Stacy King, who accepted the award, added: "It is fantastic just to be nominated for a Community Champions Award. It is a great boost for all the volunteers who do a great job."

Inspirational Shirley ­Duguid battled ill health to create training and employment opportunities for young people in Arden.

Born and bred in the area, she is the chairwoman of Arden Chillout, where she has volunteered for eight years.

After accepting the ­Individual Award, Shirley said: "I am delighted but I just do what I need to do.

"I never really thought about getting any recognition for it so I was shocked to be nominated."

Another winner whose nomination took him by surprise was PC Colin Gillies.

PC Gillies, who won the Uniform Services Award, has worked in Pollok as a community officer for five years and is devoted to tackling crime and antisocial behaviour, working with local group.

But the modest officer insisted he was just doing his job.

PC Gillies said: "There are a lot of people here tonight who are very committed to their communities and it is a pleasure to be here with them."

So high was the level of nominations for the Senior Award that there were two winners.

Friends of Rosshall Park, who have revitalised the park and the entrance to Crookston railway station, and Jim McConkey, who makes life safer for elderly people across Glasgow by installing safety alarms in their homes, both took home awards. The 76-year-old, who pays for the alarms out of this own pocket, said: "I am over the moon."

In the past year 1800 adults were given literacy and numeracy classes thanks to the South West Area Taster Programme.

The project was set up 10 years ago and is run by a dedicated band of staff who are passionate about helping adults achieve their goals. They were delighted to take home the Public Services Award, which was accepted by community learning and development officer Sheila White.

She said the award was a great testament to all those who work on the programme and added: "We have been working hard to break down barriers."

Another group that his striving or equality is the Govan and Craigton Integration Network.

The group provide a safe environment for female refugees to get support and advice and gain valuable skills.

Member Snaa Alshemlwi, who accepted the Health and Wellbeing Award, said: "Words can't describe how happy we are."

The final award of the night, the Sport Award, went to Thomas Bentley, fitness instructor at Nethercraigs Sports Complex.

Thomas, who was on holiday and unable to collect his award, works with local youths to ­combat anti-social behaviour.