INSPIRATIONAL activity leaders who have transformed the lives of people across Halton have been honoured.

Hailed ‘unsung heroes’, they received Get Active awards in Halton Council’s award ceremony at the Select Security Stadium.

Jenny Davanney from Widnes was told she had to lose weight before she could have new knees.

The 73-year-old shed four stone and started health walks on her Zimmer frame.

Her determination to get fit won her the participant of the year award.

Jenny attended the Fresh Start weight management programme run by Halton’s Health Improvement Team and joined walking for health.

Every week she was surprised how far she could keep going without a rest.

She now walks her dog around Victoria Park several times a week.

Jenny said: “Walking around Victoria Park and following advice from Fresh Start has changed my life.”

Volunteer of the year went to Derek Gates from Runcorn.

The 64-year-old started a new healthy walking programme 10 years ago and now leads up to 25 walkers every week.

The Wednesday walking group boasts 16 different routes after Derek spent hours researching and risk assessing every step.

His local knowledge enables him to turn each walk into a guided tour.

Derek has kept on top of his first aid qualification and on occasion has treated minor injuries using the emergency kit he carries in his rucksack.

Derek also volunteers as a presenter with Radio Halton in Halton Hospital where he takes the time to visit and chat to patients.

He has a passion to help other people bringing pleasure into their lives.

Paula Parle and Jane Rhodes, Halton Council’s sport and physical activity officers presented the awards.

They said they are very proud of the winners who all showed commitment and determination to change their own and other people’s health.

Halton Cllr Phil Harris, board member for sport, said: "These inspirational people have really led by example.

“They are the unsung heroes and we are glad to bring them into the spotlight."