A Northampton ex-offender, Wellingborough community project, disabled dance troupe and a children's club were among the winners - with awards being presented by charitable body, the Northamptonshire Community Foundation (NCF).

The event, held at the Saints Conference Centre, put a spotlight on the work of the NCF -which awards funds to those in need within the county.

Tina Matthew, Director of the NCF, said: "All of these award winners have received much needed funding by the Northamptonshire Community Foundation, and have used that money to achieve exceptional results in their communities. Congratulations to them all."

Since the Foundation was set up just over two years ago it has given around £1 million of grants to almost 400 groups in Northamptonshire.

AWARD: Excellence in Innovation

Winner: Open Doors, a countywide support group for ex-offenders.

Ex-offender Joseph Morris, who served time seven years ago burglary he carried out to fund his drug habit, set up the group with two other ex-offenders two year years ago.

The group helps offenders who are coming out of prison get back into society, and keep on the straight and narrow.

"We are trying to be a resource for the Northampton area," said Joseph. "We want to look at the positive in people's lives in prison - and want to show ex-offenders it is possible to turn your life around. With the right support, this can be life building."

Source: Northampton Ladies and Gentlemen Magazine

(Open Doors is a project run at Northampton Jesus Centre)