JUDGES at the North West heat were impressed by the huge reach of many of the projects.

Representatives of our partners - Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Community Planning Partnership, Scottish Fire and Rescue, Police Scotland, City Building and Glasgow Fort – all found it hard to choose winners from the group of outstanding finalists.

Evening Times deputy editor and chairperson of the judging panel Henry Ainslie, said: “Judging for the Glasgow Community Champions Awards does not get any easier.

“The standard was incredibly high.”

He added: “However, we are delighted to honour the very worthy winners celebrated at tonight’s event. They are, without exception, inspirational people without whom the city of Glasgow would be a much poorer place.”

Gordon Sloan, chairperson of City Building at the time of judging, said he had been particularly impressed by the standard of entries in the Senior category.

“It is heartening to see so many older people continuing to carry out such vital work in their community,” he added.

Superintendent Richie Adams, of Police Scotland, said: “I was really blown away by the incredible work being done in the Sport category. The individuals and groups who are supporting kids through a variety of initiatives really stood out for me.”

Melanie de Andrades, from Glasgow Fort, said: “I was very impressed by the longevity of commitment from finalists, and the exceptional work being carried out.”

Brian Nelis, of Scottish Fire and Rescue said: “I’m really in awe of the men and women across all categories who work so hard to support people in need, despite their own challenges.”

Lawrence O’Neill, of Glasgow Community Planning Partnership, said: “This year’s submissions are outstanding – which makes it very difficult to decide, but equally, humbling and enjoyable to consider.”