FROM pupils to pensioners, sports coaches to charity founders, the south of Glasgow is full of people making a difference to the community. Last night’s event was an emotional and inspirational occasion. ANN FOTHERINGHAM reports

SHARON MURPHY, food co-ordinator for Castlemilk Community Meals

“Sometimes it’s the simplest of things that bring a community together. For us it was realising that a bit of company while you are having a meal can make all the difference to someone experiencing isolation or loneliness. It was great to be nominated – to know we are appreciated.”

CHRISTOPHER MORGAN, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

“I get paid to help make this community safer but I’m always amazed by the number of people who take time out of their own busy lives to help people. Volunteers are the real champions.”

Lord Provost EVA BOLANDER

“I’m delighted to be part of this event – there are so many dedicated people out there, determined to make the south of Glasgow a wonderful and exciting place to live. It is great to see what can be achieved when people work together with their neighbours and friends. We can achieve so much more together than we can do apart.”

Bailie NORMAN MacLEOD, Glasgow Community Planning Partnership

“It is a pleasure to be part of such a happy event – it’s not the money that’s spent on a community that’s important, it’s what everyone in this room does.”

Talia, Teah and Holly, from girl group LOXIE

“It’s been amazing to get the party started here at the Glasgow Community Champions Awards. We are really proud to be involved and it’s fantastic to see all the good stuff that’s happening in the city.”

Group Manager BRIAN WINTER, Scottish Fire and Rescue

“As a service fire officer in Glasgow and a proud Glaswegian, it comes as no surprise to me that there are so many hard-working, ordinary people going the extra mile to make the lives of those who need a helping hand that little bit better.”

FRANCES STEVENSON, Pollokshaws Hub Community Garden

“We have a lot to be proud of – much has been achieved in a short time and it’s great to be part of a night like this.”

LESLEY CUNNINGHAM, daughter of Individual award-winner Marilyn

“Tonight shows people they are appreciated. My mum, like everyone else in this room tonight, is used to looking after everyone else. It’s nice for them to stop and see others doing something special for them for a change.”

ANTONIA McTERNAN, Young award finalist

“I was really surprised to be nominated – it’s such an honour. I just wanted to help people who, like me, are fighting leukaemia, by raising funds and awareness. To know that people admire what you are doing is really lovely.”

DAVID D’ARCY, chairman of Our Lady of the Annunciation Football Club

“We’re delighted to be here – it’s a great tribute to the work our coaches and supporters do. Our club is different, because the kids get to play with their friends and meet new people from other schools. It’s made a big difference to our community.”

ANGIE SIVAGNANASUNDARAM, founder of Missing People Scotland

“I’m really honoured to be here. All my life I’ve just wanted people to say – she has done something good in her life. I feel like I’ve achieved that, in some way. I’ve got the ball rolling, and I’ll keep going. It’s great to be recognised for doing something you love to do.”

JUSTINE LYNCH, volunteer at the Milk Cafe

“We’re over the moon that the Milk Cafe and its founders Angela Ireland and Gabby Cluness have been nominated tonight. I know from experience how much this place means to the local community, and how much it does to bring people together. It’s a vital resource.”