A "thoughtful and compassionate" care home manager and CAMSAR volunteer won the biggest award of the night at the 2023 Ely Hero Awards.

Wayne Bent was crowned The Ely Hero at the glitzy ceremony at The Maltings.

He is the manager of Holly Cottage Care Home in Ely, which cares for adults providing them with a full a life as possible.

Sixteen years ago, Wayne began to volunteer for search and rescue charity, CAMSAR, who search for missing and vulnerable individuals.

The judges said: "Holly Cottage has endured difficult times during COVID but, through the dedication of Wayne and his team, have continued to provide an excellent standard of care.

"He has also put his life on hold to search for any missing person at the drop of a hat.

"Wayne now recruits and trains new volunteers, and he is heavily involved in fundraising for this vital charity.

"Wayne is a thoughtful, compassionate and integral part of the community."

After winning the award, Wayne said: "I'm really shocked. 

"When I first met with the judges, I really didn't feel that I should have been there.

"I really don't do what I do for recognition or accolades.

"I don't feel special at all, I just do what I do and crack on with it.

"This award is for my team at work and my team at CAMSAR. I'm just one piece of that. This is for all of us. 

"This is as much for them as it is for me. 

The other finalists in this category were Liz Medd and Jo Webber.

The judges said of all the finalists in this category: “The highlight of each Ely Hero Award Ceremony is the crowning of THE Ely Hero.

“We heard a range of fantastic stories from individuals in the community who are brave, resilient, compassionate, caring and, above all, altruistic.

“It was therefore very difficult to shortlist finalists, but these individuals are steadfast in their commitment to the community and making a difference in the lives of others.”

This award was sponsored by Xpert Resourcing.