It was the sixth annual 'North West People of the Year Awards' and during the event, a number of local people who normally work away quietly behind the scenes were honoured for their work in the community

Jack Houlahan was honoured for his special interest in the community development approach to drugs and substance abuse.

Michaela McDaid from Aware Defeat Depression accepted the award on behalf of the group.

The group was praised for the support and information they've given to people during the past 12 years.

Community worker Teresa McDonough from Hazelbank was praised for her efforts. Even though she is visually impaired and registered disabled Teresa still manages to find the time and energy to champion the needs of the disabled, elderly, the young and anyone in need of support.

A new initiative, the Street Pastors, which was set up to engage with young people and late night revellers as they spill out of city centre pubs on Friday nights was also presented with an award.

Linda Watson from the Caw/Nelson Drive Action group received an award for the community work she has done in the city.

Boxing coach Tommy Donnelly was next up to be honoured. Tommy has been coaching for more than 50 years, and continues to train and encourage local boxers.

Also commended was Strabane woman Annmarie Houston, the driving force behind the RNIB's women's project. Despite having retinitis pigmentosa leaving her with just a limited keyhole sight, Annmarie aims to challenge those who have lost their sight.

Owner of Claude's cafe Declan Moore was recognised for the service his business provides cooking and serving Christmas dinner for homeless people on Christmas Day.

'Big' Ian Maconachie who was one of the organisers of Derry's famous world record breaking 10,0001 Santas was next up for an award. Ian's role was "pivotal" to the success of the project the audience was told.

Broadbridge man and Foyle Hospice volunteer, Joe McLaughlin, was also given an award.

For 25 years Joe has been a supporter of the charity and collects £1 per week from more than 140 subscribers, remarkable, considering Joe does not drive and does all his collections either by foot or on his bike.

Saturday night's event on Saturday night raised a huge amount of money for Foyle Hospice.

Co-ordinator of the awards Martin McCrossan who announced that he was stepping down from his role this year congratulated all the recipients and the hard work that had been put in by the committee.

The awards were sponsored by the Derry Journal, Coca Cola and First Trust Bank.