We want you to tell us who your unsung heroes are so that their efforts can be rewarded.

The first person to be presented with a rose for 2008 is Bourne's Kathy Roughton, who has given 22 years of dedicated service to the town's Butterfield Centre.

Kathy (67) was given a surprise presentation at the centre's Christmas party at Bourne Baptist Church Hall Kathy, whose role has included taking part in activities with elderly people and bathing them at the centre, said: "I can't believe I have received this rose.

"I had no idea about it. It is lovely to be nominated.

"The centre is a big part of my life and I have good friends there who I have known for a long time."

Butterfield manager Debbie Hague nominated Kathy and said: "She has worked at the centre since its opening in 1985 and is, as far as I am aware, its longest serving team member.

"Kathy is always cheerful and willing to assist in any way and I feel that her devotion to the centre and its clients should be rewarded.

"She helps keep everyone's spirits up and has a way of bringing people out of themselves if they are new to us."

Kathy visits the Butterfield Centre at least twice a week and Mrs Hague added: "I think that receiving this award shows how much she is appreciated and missed.

"We couldn't do what we do without volunteers.

"Kathy is part of the backbone of the Butterfield."

Nominate unsung heroes

If you know someone whose efforts deserve praise, we want to hear from you. Tell The Local by calling a reporter on 01778 425876 or send an email to us at news@bournelocal.co.uk