GOOD neighbours, community supporters and a young sports star were honoured by Cockenzie and Port Seton Community Council at its annual awards event.

Former Cockenzie and Port Seton Gala committee stalwart Christine Baines received special recognition for her contribution to youth work at the awards on Saturday.

Christine, who served on the committee for more than 22 years, is also well known for helping with young people at Chalmers Memorial Church.

Her work with the gala committee, where she has been chairperson and treasurer over the years, has helped keep the annual event afloat and she is regularly seen on the day running around in a red sweatshirt as she ensures everything goes to plan.

Also recognised at the awards ceremony, held in Port Seton Centre, were Eileen and John Brown, who received a Good Neighbour Award.

Eileen is a well-known face to all who visit the centre and is always helpful, with a smile and cheery word.

These attributes continue outside of work and Eileen and John were honoured for going the extra mile to help an elderly neighbour with dementia – doing her shopping, taking her to appointments, paying bills and other small tasks as required.

Youngster Leona Jack was named Sportsperson of the Year for her achievements in karate.

2014 was Leona’s first year at international level and she was described as an outstanding ambassador for Port Seton Karate Club and for the village.

Leona won the British All Styles Karate Championships, as well as taking medals at a range of competitions.

The community council also gave an award to Gareth Jones, the chairman of the Battle of Prestonpans Heritage Trust and a founding member of the Coastal Regeneration Alliance (CRA).

The CRA worked tirelessly over the last year to halt plans by Scottish Enterprise to build a vast energy park on and around the former Cockenzie Power Station site, as well as creating their own community vision for the land, which they are seeking to progress.

The community council described Gareth as not only a clear and concise speaker at community meetings but a dedicated member of the community.

Also recognised for their contribution to the community were Jim Mackie, who has entertained the residents on Osborne Court and the John Bellany Day Centre for many years, and Bob Glasgow, who runs the local amateur radio club.