Caring radio presenter Ian Watkins has shone a spotlight on people making a difference in the Mansfield and Ashfield community — by hosting his inaugural The Watko Star Awards.

Ian — best known as Watko on Mansfield 103.2 — revealed the winners of his new awards on his Facebook channel, saying the recipients deserved recognition for their unsung work.

He read out the names of winners from a golden envelope, giving them an online mini red carpet treatment.

“Well done to all the Star Award winners – all amazing people doing amazing things,” he added.

“I am really pleased to have been able to do this. They are people who really deserve, people who have done fabulous things in our commuity and local area.

“Loads of peope deserve awards and I thought it would be nice to do something like this.”

Category winners were:

Town Champion — Mansfield BID chief executive Jay Rowlinson (pictured with Ian top) for his unwavering dedication and hard work in making Mansfield a better place for everyone. Ian said Jay was a positive voice for the town centre and its businesses, and his passion was inspirational and infectious.

Local Hero — Darren Bettison, of Darren Bettison Wellbeing Service, whose quick thinking saved someone’s life after they fell from a building. Darren, of Ladybrook in Mansfield, is dedicated to improving health and wellbeing in the community.

Music Legend — Well-respected local busker Wes Dolan who “does free things in the community to put smiles on people’s faces.”

Mental Health Champion — Carrie Austin, of Carrie Austin Photography, Sutton, “who always goes the extra mile and works to bust any stigma around mental health and neurodiversity.”

Kindness — Marc Jones, who works in the care sector and was recently a finalist in the Nottinghamshire Proud to Care Awards.

Fundraising Star — Craig French, of Frenbot Charity Football, an annual match featuring television stars that has raised thousands of pounds for local charities over many years.

Unsung Superstar — Natalie Hannant, the driving force behind fundraising events at English Rose Estate Agents, Kirkby.

Lifetime Achievement — Maria Bough, who recently retired, received an award for her endless work in the community and fundraising for charities. Ian said she needed to be recognised for her selfless efforts over many years to help others, and for being a pillar of the community.

To watch Ian’s video announcement of the winners, go to www.facebook.com/theofficialwatko