THE first four winners at our annual Heritage Network awards ceremony went to individuals who have contributed much to the local scene.

The first was to Mary Presland as a mark of respect for her dedicated work for the St Helens Historical Society for more than 50 years and helping promote the local history of our town.

Mary is also involved with the Thursday Group that meets every week in the Local History and Archives Library and which has produced many books and booklets.

We also gave one to Peter Harvey for his excellent autobiography Redhead with Fire in his Boots. His career as a semi-professional rugby league player reached its climax in our local Championship and Challenge Cup sides of the 1960s. Some of you may recall his days as a teacher and head teacher.

He has since been actively involved with the Deafness Resource Centre and with the WWI St Helens Pals project.

We awarded Ted Forsyth for his historical detective work, in particular regarding Windleshaw Chantry. It was Ted who proved the Chantry was here in 1415, 600 years ago. He has an encyclopaedic knowledge of local cemeteries.

Enid Pennington was also recognised for her efforts in keeping local theatre alive with the Unnamed Players and the Friends of the Theatre Royal.

The Unnamed Players have entertained us with heritage links such as the re-enactment of a Victorian council meeting in the town hall and the Titanic Sinking Enquiry at the Citadel in 2012, 100 years to the day of the ship's sinking.

She also works hard helping our jewel in the crown the Theatre Royal. I saw Enid there when Ken Dodd came on stage at 7.15pm and was there when he was still telling jokes at 12.40am.

She persuaded him to contribute to the cost of repairing the lift which he happily did as he loves our theatre.

The Friends of St Helens Cemetery were recognised for bringing forgotten people back to memory such as PC Gordon, Norman Sutton and the paupers' grave.

There was also an award for Joanne and Vicky who sacrifice their weekends to work at Eccleston Smithy where they use their flair and imagination to put on several exhibitions each year.

At the ceremony local historian Dave Knowles acted as MC and we were delighted Andy Bowden offered his time to present the awards.

Also special mention to Margaret Gibbons and Diane Roberts for an excellent spread.