“HIDDEN” heroes – including two from Rotherham – have been selected as finalists ahead of a prestigious awards ceremony celebrating the impact of grassroots organisations across South Yorkshire.

The shortlist for South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation's Community Celebration Awards features eight voluntary and community groups – two from each of the four areas of the region.

In the spotlight for the Rotherham Community Impact Award are Harthill Tea Day Social Club and Cortonwood Comeback.

The social club has been running for 67 years and runs fortnightly tea days for elderly people in Harthill and the surrounding areas, as well also arranging trips for members.

NOMINATED: Members of the Harthill Tea Day Social Club

placeholder image — NOMINATED: Members of the Harthill Tea Day Social Club

Cortonwood Comeback is a community centre and hub that’s home to a range of independent organisations, which use its facilities to deliver services including youth clubs, outdoors and wellness activities, and coffee mornings.

The winners will be unveiled at a special event at the Victoria, Kelham Island, on May 14 to celebrate 40 years of South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation.

Since 1986, SYCF has invested more than £40million into thousands of grassroots organisations across the region.

Martin Singer, SYCF chief executive, said: “We received an exceptional number of submissions, each one highlighting the breadth and impact of positive work taking place across South Yorkshire.

“It was an incredibly tough process to select the finalists from scores of groups who entered – the hidden heroes of our local communities working tirelessly to make a difference.

“These awards are about celebrating the dedication, compassion and resilience of voluntary groups who are at the heart of their communities.

“Every organisation who entered should be incredibly proud of the difference they are making to people’s lives.”