JULIE Burgwin and Jan Robertson are two of the people who received Bishop's Castle Civic Awards at a recent ceremony in the town hall, in recognition of their great contribution to the community.

The two friends hold regular charity bingo sessions and have raised a total of £27,000 in just under three years. Their most recent donation was £100 which they have given to the Festive Friends, a Quaker based group which provides Christmas lunch and fellowship for those who would otherwise be on their own on December 25.

Festive Friends is now in its fifth year and Steve Hale, one of the organisers, explains, "The number of people coming to the Church Barn on Christmas Day has increased to about 50 guests and volunteers, so we are delighted to accept a cheque from Julie and Jan to support our venture and thank them both for their efforts. If you want to find out more about Festive Friends, please call 01588 630409."

Jan and Julie have their next cash bingo night at the Kings Head in Bishop's Castle on December 7 in aid of the local AMP music project for young musicians. The second is at the same venue on December 14 for Brooke, an international equine charity. Both begin at 8pm. In addition you can drive over to Wentnor for a charity prize bingo at the Inn on the Green on December 5 in aid of Hope House, the Rose Cottage Cat Rescue Centre and Dogsbodies Bishop's Castle Dog Rescue. Ticket sales start at 7pm, with eyes down at 8pm.