The people of Croydon have spoken - the finalists have been announced for 2017 Mayor’s Civic Awards.

From volunteer work, to just being a good neighbour, more than 200 nominations were made across ten categories and its now down to the final 25 for the community awards.

“Croydon is full of unsung heroes, people who selflessly give their time and put others first to the benefit of their neighbours and the wider community," Mayor of Croydon Toni Letts said.

"This is evidenced by the incredible number of nominations we received across the categories.

“I’d like to congratulate all of the finalists and thank everyone who submitted a nomination and for those who weren’t shortlisted on this occasion, thank you for what you do for our town and its residents.”

The finalists for each category at this year’s awards are:

• Business in the Community

Jayne Laville – New Addington Job Club

Central Parade Business Partnership Ltd (CPBP)

Chequers Contract Services Ltd

• Contribution to Sport and Healthy Living

Energise FC

Joseph Jeffers

Beth Towle

• Don’t Mess With Croydon – Take Pride

Sparkle Bulku

Emma Hope-Fitch

Keith Sinclair

• Fairer Croydon

Lynn Cedar and Deborah Haythorne and drama therapists at Roundabout

Jam-Bus music

• Good Neighbour

Patrick Buckley

Sarah Balch

• Stronger Together

Mind in Croydon – The Hub

Croydon Legal Advice Clinic volunteers

Jazz Rayit – Foundation 4 Life

• Young Achiever of the Year

Shaniqua Benjamin

Venus Lamey

• Volunteer of the Year

Tony Sewell

Claire Mills

Mrs Bilquis Ahmed

• Voluntary Group of the Year

Friends of Grange Park

Love Norbury

The winners will be announced on Tuesday, October 17.