LAST week the mayor of Alcester presented the annual awards for Citizen of the Year, along with a new award, for Community Group of the Year.

The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Carole Zambanini, who organises the Alzheimer’s Cafe in the town.

Mayor Mark Cargill said: “Dementia is a terrible disease and one that is becoming more of an issue year on year. There is no known cure yet. Therefore it is important to give sufferers as pleasant and stimulating environment as possible. Alcester has a very well attended Alzheimer’s Cafe at the Jubilee Centre where people can meet and interact. Such places can only exist through the tireless efforts of volunteers. My award to citizen of the year goes to Carole Zambanini who has worked tirelessly to provided such an environment.”

He went on to present the new Community Group of the Year award, adding: “The community group award is new and reflects the efforts that groups make to the atmosphere of the town. Alcester is fortunate to have many community groups but some stand out. My award this year goes to the Alcester Male Voice Choir and was accepted on their behalf by the founder, Judith Land. AMVC is now in its 40th year and not only going strong but being recognised nationally.”

The awards were announced in a ceremony at Globe House.