A reverend and a headteacher were among those praised at Hendon Town Hall last Wednesday as the borough honoured those who have made an outstanding contribution to borough life.

In total, 43 people received award certificates for various contributions to life in the borough. From these, six outstanding winners were selected to receive a framed commemorative certificate.

It is the seventh year Barnet Council has organised a civic awards ceremony.

Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Eva Greenspan, said: "This ceremony gives the borough and its residents the chance to say thank you' for the contribution these dedicated and generous people have made to their community."

Reverend Bernd Koschland, of Vincent Court, Bell Lane, Hendon, as awarded a certificate.

He works voluntarily for a number of organisations. He is chairman of Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education in Barnet, the first chairman of Barnet's Multi-Faith Forum, chairman of Barnet's Standards Committee and Barnet Children's Fund.

He is also the chaplain at Royal Free hospital, Hampstead.

Mr Koschland said: "Having lived in Barnet for the longest period of my life, I have been very much at home. And being part of a community, one has to do something for that community.

"This is my philosophy of life, and I feel it sincerely. I will value and treasure this award for the rest of my days."

Jenny Gridley also received an award.

She is headteacher at Oakleigh School, Oakleigh Road North, Whetstone, a special educational needs school for children aged two to 11 with severe and complex learning difficulties.

She received the award for 18 years' commitment and dedication to vulnerable children in Barnet.

Mrs Gridley said: "It was a surprise to be nominated. It's nice to be recognised for the work you do and for others to think that the job you're doing is worthwhile.

"My own two children were screaming with delight when I told them. They were over the moon."

Other recipients of the award included Charilaos Kitromilides, of Highcroft Gardens, Golders Green. Mr Kitromilides, 90, was recognised for his lifelong commitment to the large Greek-Cypriot community in Barnet.

Others who received a vellum award were: Pauline King, of Hermitage Court, Hermitage Lane, Cricklewood; Jyoti Shah, from Finchley; and David Smith, of Abbotts Gardens, East Finchley.