A 'REMARKABLE' octogenarian who volunteers tirelessly for the benefit of an East Cornwall village community was given recognition for her efforts at the inaugural county civic awards ceremony last week.

Eighty-four-year-old Ann Craig, from Stoke Climsland, was among 19 recipients of the Cornwall Council civic awards who were recognised as 'local heroes' for their generosity as community volunteers.

Nominated by local Cornwall councillors, unsung heroes who make an outstanding contribution to their local areas were presented with awards by outgoing council chairman Cllr John Wood during the event at County Hall in Truro.

Mrs Craig was nominated for the award by Cornwall Councillor for Stoke Climsland Neil Burden, who described her as someone with 'great determination and energy' and an 'absolutely remarkable lady'.

Mrs Craig was a former teacher at St Joseph's School in Launceston and takes a keen interest in local community life through her involvement in many organisations, including the Women's Institute and Old School community centre committee.

She also runs monthly Old School committee afternoon tea parties and was Stoke Climsland flower show secretary from the late 1970s until 2010.

Following her husband's death from dementia 18 years ago, Mrs Craig now also helps at the recently formed carers' group in the village.

Local youngsters have also benefited from Mrs Craig's generosity through her voluntary work at the local primary school where she teaches bread making and knitting during after school sessions.

Mrs Craig said she was surprised to have been nominated as there were many other people who also do a lot in the village.

She said: 'There are so many other people that have been doing things in the village for years as well, but it is nice to be recognised.

'I had a letter to say to go to County Hall in Truro. I was given the award and then we had champagne afterwards.'

During the ceremony, Cllr John Wood said Mrs Craig had been a 'stalwart worker' in Stoke Climsland for the past 45 years.

He said she remained 'very active' in the community and was a 'natural leader of men and women'.