TWO Monmouthshire residents were recognised for their volunteering efforts at the 2016 Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Imogen Peach-Morgan, of Monmouth, and Diane Mansell, of Caldicot, were rewarded for dedicating hours of their time to helping others.

The Wales Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA) event took place at Cardiff Castle and hosted by WCVA Vice-President, Tom Jones OBE.

There were six nomination categories at the ceremony, with the awards presented by guest speaker, BBC News journalist Siân Lloyd.

Ms Morgan was recognised in the 'Young Person' category for her "intensive work" with young people with complex needs at Caerwent Inclusive Youth Club.

"I am overwhelmed and extremely grateful that my voluntary work in the community has been recognised," said Ms Morgan.

"I have realised that helping vulnerable people has not only made a difference to their lives but also to my own, in terms of developing my self-esteem and confidence.

"Since I have been volunteering, I now feel that this is a career path I would like to follow. I would just like to express again my gratitude for this amazing opportunity."

Fred Weston, of Monmouth's Building Bridges Community Centre, described Miss Morgan as "role model for all young people thinking about volunteering".

Mrs Mansell, a nurse by trade, scooped the 'Green Volunteer' award for her work as an emergency hedgehog carer at Hedgehog Helpline in Caldicot.

According to fellow volunteer Susan Hooper, Mrs Mansell took in 100 of the hoglets last summer where she rehabilitates them before releasing them back into the wild.

The charity also runs hedgehog courses and Mrs Mansell has written a training programme to educate fellow carers on hoglet care.

Mrs Mansell described the award as a "great honour", adding: "Although at times very emotional and demanding, caring for these amazing creatures is so rewarding.

"This award will help promote our work, increase public awareness in promoting an environment for hedgehogs to live safely and thrive in the wild."

WCVA chief executive Ruth Marks described Wales as a "nation of volunteers" that people constantly rely upon for their services.

She added: "Recognising the work of volunteers - and saying thank you - are important steps in creating strong and vibrant Welsh communities."