As the temperature dipped outside, only a warm glow could be felt inside the Customs House, as the Pride of South Tyneside Awards got under way.

The emotional ceremony, attended by almost 400 people, was bursting with tales of bravery, dedication and talent.

Gazette editor John Szymanski said: "It has been an absolutely fantastic night, with many stories of courage, initiative, talent, and people fighting against the odds.

"It is one of those nights where you actually leave the theatre and think South Tyneside is a great place to live and work – and the people are fantastic too."

Gymnast Steven Gilmore was the first winner to take to the stage, collecting the Sporting Excellence award from Jeff Brown.

The BBC Look North sports presenter joked beforehand that it wouldn't be going to any of our Premiership teams.

Steven, 13, from Grange Road West, Jarrow, is a national champion in tumbling, and a future Olympic hopeful. He said: "I'm really pleased with the award."

Hartleyburn Community Association (CA) in Crawley Avenue, Hebburn, received the Community Group of the Year award.

It is the only CA in the borough run entirely by volunteers, and has been going for more than 60 years.

Joyce Nicholson, secretary of the management committee, said: "We are delighted. The award is for the whole community centre."

BBC Radio Newcastle's breakfast show host Mike Parr, who presented the award, said the category proves community spirit is still very much alive in the borough.

Apprentice engineer Warren Cooke, 19, from Calf Close, Jarrow, was named Top Achiever. He left school with few qualifications, but is now combining work with studying to degree level.

"It was unexpected," he said. "I think everyone in the category deserved the award really. It has definitely given me a boost."

The Carer of the Year award went to Liz McCulla, South Tyneside's longest-serving foster carer.

The 58-year-old, from Jarrow, has raised her own family, as well as looked after 16 babies and young children since 1975.

She said: "I feel ecstatic, and I would like to thank Ron Dix, from South Tyneside Council's fostering service, who nominated me. I'm grateful for all the support I've received."

The Child of Courage award brought the first half of the ceremony to a tear-jerking close. Unfortunately, Mitchell Robinson was not there to collect it.