GHA board member Kate Willis, Glasgow Community Planning Partnership community councils officer Steven Dowling and Police Scotland Chief Inspector Simon Jaecocke agreed it was an enjoyable, if near-impossible, task to come up with this session’s worthy winners.

“How do you choose between such a fantastic group of entries?” said Mr Dowling.

“The number of entries is testament to the fact community spirit is alive and well in Glasgow.”

He adds: “What struck me again and again was that so many of these projects start with a small group of people – parents, neighbours, friends – who see that something needs done and simply get up and do it.

“I was really impressed by Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries – here is a project that’s the perfect example of successful partnership working which cuts through social and economic divides. Cancer doesn’t care who it affects – and this project recognises that and helps everyone.

“It is really humbling to be part of these awards, and I am proud of the role GCPP plays in supporting them.”

Photo credit: Jamie Simpson

Ms Willis said she had been particularly impressed by the number of entries from older people.

She explained: “It was great to see so many entries from older and retired residents.

“At a time when they could be putting their feet up and relaxing into retirement, instead, many just get out into their communities and do a lot of good. It’s very inspiring.”

She added: “I was really impressed by the entrants in the Individual award – in areas of real need, we see people who stand up and pull them together, and this category is full of them.

“GHA is delighted to continue to support the Glasgow Community Champion Awards.”

Chief Inspector Jaecocke said: “This year has been very strong in terms of the number of entries received and the quality of those entries.

“There have been very many examples of selfless individuals, overcoming personal and professional hurdles to make a difference to other people’s lives. I am full of admiration for people – such as PC Jacqueline Campbell, for example, who really go the extra mile.

“The Milk Café, for example, stood out for me as it has a real sense of community building and of creating friendships.”

He added: “Police Scotland officers come across great examples of strong communities every day – it’s fantastic to be able to recognise some of them as part of these awards.”

The fourth judge, Paul Blackwood, station manager with Scottish Fire and Rescue, was unable to attend on the day at the last minute but gave his thoughts on the entrants.

“I was blown away by the Senior and Young Award finalists – these are always very difficult categories to judge,” he said.

“So many people dedicate such time and effort to help others – some, in the case of Bethany Donaghy, for example, don’t just help their peers, they have a much wider impact.

“It’s great to see groups too, particularly in the Sport category, working hard to break down barriers.”

He added: “Scottish Fire and Rescue is pleased to back these awards, which really do reward those who deserve it most – the unsung and the unrecognised.”