THEY were all superstars – but the biggest cheer at last night’s Glasgow Community Champions awards went to those line-dancing Glasgow grannies…

The Rockers, famous for their impromptu performance outside the City Halls which became a viral hit on social media, took to the streets outside Partick Burgh Hall for an encore.

And finalists arriving for the north west heat loved it.

The Rockers narrowly missed out on the Senior Award, but group member Jackie Bird was not disappointed.

“What a lovely night – we were delighted to be part of it,” she smiled. “We work hard to make our club welcoming for all and it’s very nice to be appreciated.”

Evening Times Editor Donald Martin said: “What a great way to round off the 2018 heats – it was a fantastic, uplifting night full of great stories.”

The night began with a beautiful rendition of True Colours by stunning singer Robyn Burns, 12, and ended with the mighty Michelle McManus, resplendent in sparkly trainers, who raised the roof with a typically outstanding vocal performance.

In between, we caught up with the finalists, winners and friends of the event.

“Like most of the people here tonight, I’m just happy working away in the background – it feels strange to get all this attention for doing something I love to do. But it’s a real honour.”

Caroline Thomson, Individual Award finalist

“Glasgow is a wonderful place, and by bringing together our partners and the community, we can all achieve so much more than we could individually. We are delighted to be part of this event.”

Bailie Malcolm Balfour, Glasgow City Council

“My mum was shocked when my dad told her he had secretly nominated her for a Community Champions Award. But she was really happy. We are so proud of everything she has done, running the dance club in memory of her friend, and looking after all the young people who take part. Last year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer – but she never missed a meeting. She is amazing.”

Megan Smith, daughter of Individual Award finalist Frances Smith.

“City Building is proud to be part of these awards, which recognise and celebrate the outstanding work being carried out in the communities we serve.”

Dr Graham Paterson, Executive Director, City Building

“I’m feeling a bit surprised, and very humbled. I don’t look for recognition or awards. I’m involved in lots of different groups because sometimes, people need a bit of help. Things need changed and challenged. And if you can make it better, why wouldn’t you at least try?”

Jean Forrester, Senior Award finalist.

“There are cops in every corner of this city who are genuinely inspired by the kind of work done by the people in this room tonight – people who just do that little bit extra to help others, every single day, making our communities safer and happier. It’s a huge privilege for Police Scotland to be here tonight.”

Superintendent Richie Adams, Police Scotland

“It’s wonderful to be here, because it gives our staff and volunteers the recognition they deserve. We’re all very proud of what we have achieved for the hundreds of people who use our service – we are helping expand their horizons.”

Una Clive, business manager of Coach House Trust, Health and Wellbeing finalists.

“We are proud to support the Glasgow Community Champions Awards. We care for our community and we care for the people who shop with us every day and we are particularly pleased to support the Young Award in this, Scotland’s first Year of Young People.”

Phil Goodman, Centre Director, Glasgow Fort

“Community Champions is a brilliant event – it’s great to be part of it.”

Mark Adams, chairperson of North Kelvin Sports Development Group, Sport Award finalists