“HIDDEN heroes” from Rotherham and the Dearne Valley are among those 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 regional areas .

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 as arranging trips for their members.

placeholder image — Cortonwood Comeback community centre

Cortonwood Comeback in Brampton Bierlow is a community centre 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.

And highlighted in the Doncaster Community Impact Award category is Edlington Community Organisation – a charity based at Yorkshire Main Community Centre whose aim is to improve and regenerate Edlington and its surrounding areas.

The winners will be unveiled at a special event at the Victoria, Kelham Island, on May 14 to celebrate 40 years of SYCF.

Martin Singer, 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.”