An 81-year-old “with a heart of gold” was among those to be crowned a Sutton community champion.

Les Wileman was handed the Improving People’s Lives award at the Community Leadership awards last week, which recognises people who go out of their way to make Sutton a better place to live.

The awards are now in their second year, with more than 160 nominations made this year.

The judges said Mr Wileman had made “an enormous difference” to the lives of older people across the borough, as he was handed the Community Improving People's Lives award.

He visits residential and nursing homes in the borough and befriends those who may not have many other visitors.

He said: “I’m sure everyone here would agree that we couldn’t achieve what we have without the help and support of so many others. I’m receiving this award on behalf of them."

Winner in the Doing More With Less category was Melanie Chiwera, who was recognised for her work with the Benhill Estate Residents’ Association and for her contribution to the community there.

She has set up the estate’s vegetable patches and helped a large Somalian community to integrate into local life.

After being presented with her award by Tom Brake MP, she said: “To get an award is a real honour and I’m shocked. I’m just a mum who wanted to grow some vegetables and meet some people. I couldn’t have done it without the support of everyone there.”

The third award, Outstanding Staff Contribution - Serving Sutton’s People, was won by Sutton’s town centre manager Martin Furtauer-Hayes.

During August’s civil unrest, he worked around the clock to help ensure Sutton did not suffer the same level of unrest as other London boroughs.

Sutton Council leader Sean Brennan said: “These awards show that there is an army of people out there working hard day in day out, selflessly for others, in their passion to make Sutton a better place.

“At a time when we’re facing financial challenges and it can seem that a sense of community is dwindling, it’s inspirational to hear of their heart warming efforts.

"It all demonstrates why Sutton is such a special place with such a wonderful sense of community spirit and pride in the area.”

Each winner reveived a £100 shopping voucher, and runners up were presented with certificates at a ceremony at the Europa Gallery in Sutton Library on Thursday night.