A long-serving firefighter, a summer camp leader and the town's rotary club were recognised in Epping Town's civic awards.

Ryan Fitzgibbon was selected as Townsperson of the Year at the annual civic reception on Friday, with Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright saying the council was "so impressed" with all he has done for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service in Epping over 32 years.

Mr Fitzgibbon is a qualified breathing apparatus operator and HGV Fire Service Driver and worked throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

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During his career, he has received both the Queen’s Golden and Jubilee medals.

This Is Local London: Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright presents the Townsperson of the Year award to Ryan Fitzgibbon

The Young Townsperson of the Year is Stanley Wells, for his "enormous contribution" to Ivy Chimneys Primary School's Summer Camp activities.

Children had voted Stanley, who could not attend the presentation, the best young sports coach.

The Community Award was presented to the Rotary Club of Epping in recognition of its "outstanding contribution to our community" though its events, which include Carols on the Green, Santa’s Sleigh at Christmas and its ongoing campaign to end polio.

This Is Local London: Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright presents the Community Award to Rotary Club of Epping president Michael Morgan

The club has donated over £5,000 to the Ukraine Appeal, and over £2,000 to Alzheimer's charity.

The award was presented by Town Mayor Michael Wright to club president Michael Morgan.

Friday's event celebrated the effort of numerous local community organisations with those involved thanked for their contribution.

This Is Local London: Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright with Epping Rotarians (left to right) Peter Helmers, Barbara Ford, president Michael Morgan and Barbara Scruton

There was also a talk from Roger Smith, from the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

Mr Wright, who has been Town Mayor in 2021-22 and previously held the position in 2016, said: "As Mayor, one really gets the chance to see how many excellent individuals and community organisations there are in Epping Parish and what a wonderful sense of community this fosters.

"Epping is a great place and we are here tonight to celebrate that."

This Is Local London: Epping Town Mayor councillor Michael Wright with Epping Forest District Council chairman councillor Helen Kane. All photos: David Jackman/Everything Local News

Mr Wright thanked residents who have contributed towards the Neighbourhood Plan for Epping over the past seven years, and thanked town councillors and town council staff - headed by Town Clerk Beverley Rumsey - for their work on behalf of the town.

He said: "My term as both Mayor and Chairman of the Council has been so much easier with their help and guidance."