BISHOP'S Waltham's "incredible" community spirit was hailed at an awards ceremony for volunteers who saved and made lives in the leafy town this year.

Everyone from medical responders and action groups to film clubs and street cleaners was celebrated at the annual parish meeting.

A special award was given to John Glasspool and Jean Lovegrove for their vital roles in saving a runner who collapsed with a heart attack in the street this winter.

The bystanders called 999 and gave emergency CPR before the marathon trainer was rushed to hospital for life-saving treatment.

May Martin, presenting, said: "These two people are, indeed, good Samaritans of our community and deserve recognition for their prompt actions."

Hampshire Chronicle:

John Glasspool and Jean Lovegrove receive their prize from Cllr Tracy Conduct (centre)

Tracy Conduct, chairman of Bishop's Waltham Parish Council, said: "It was lovely to see so many groups with mentions and awards.

"I think it shows that Bishop's Waltham has a really good community spirit, with a lot of people that give their time so freely to different things with the community."

Jean Hammerton and Sandi Anning were named joint Volunteers of the Year, with six others hailed for their work keeping the town safe, tidy, friendly and active.

Ms Martin said the former "has not stopped working" for residents through roles at St John Ambulance, Friends in Retirement and Heart Start medical training, while Ms Anning has "tirelessly and selflessly" backed good causes including child literacy, trauma recovery and charity fundraising.

"It was lovely, just amazing," Ms Hammerton said of her win. "I had no idea.

"Bishop's Waltham is that sort of place - it's just incredible what goes on here."

The collective volunteering prize went to the North Pond Conservation Group, while £1,000 in parish council grant was shared between the local Army scouts and lunch club.

The meeting also heard from police, parish chiefs and city councillors on major projects, falling crime rates and challenges which lie ahead, including pressure on infrastructure from new housing.