TWO former mayors of Milford Haven have been recognised for their efforts in helping tackle loneliness in the community.

Colin Sharp and Guy Woodham were finalists at the first ever Jo Cox Cymru Awards, held at the National Assembly in Cardiff today (Monday, June 2).

Their annual Christmas Together event has provided an alternative to spending Christmas Day alone since 2012.

The event has continued to go from strength to strength, with more than 100 people coming together to celebrate on what can be the loneliest day of the year.

Colin and Guy made it through to the final nine of the Jo Cox Loneliness Champion category, taking home a third-place award.

Said Colin: "We would like to thank the Port of Milford Haven for nominating us and we accept this award not only for us but all the volunteers that make the day so special."

The Jo Cox Cymru Community Champions Awards 2018 were set up to show appreciation for community activism across three categories: Community Champion, Tackling Loneliness Champions and Women’s Champion.

Nominations were received from across Wales on behalf of individuals and organisations in celebration of those who go above and beyond to help others in an event.

Labour AM Eluned Morgan, who sponsored the award, said: “Jo believed that we have more in common than that which divides us and this award was founded to highlight the fantastic work happening all over Wales on the issues Jo cared so deeply about.

"I am really proud to have worked alongside her and I could think of no better way to celebrate her legacy or to share her message of unity and compassion that to pay tribute to the kind and selfless acts happening in Welsh communities every day."

The awards ceremony was streamed here.