FOREST Fitness Centre director Alan Elliott had the tables turned on him at the annual dinner and presentation evening held at Longhope's Latchen Room.

Always at the heart of organising the event, Alan instead found himself on the receiving end of two surprise presentations.

Together with John Callanan, Alan received a special presentation from Nathan and Keith Fisher as a 'thank-you' for their coaching efforts over the past 13 years.

And before he had time to sit down, a second presentation followed, this time a framed community certificate from The League of Friends to recognise his 30 years of servce to the centre.

The 'sell-out' evening welcomed guest Ceri Evans, a deputy Lord Lieutenant, members of the volunteers team and centre members. Thanks were given to The League of Friends, and the "Coffee Morning Gang" for their fund-raising efforts.

The Edith Buskell Shield for the senior woman of the year was won by Mrs Ann Manning, and her husband Chris made it a perfect double act by receiving the W. Bonser Shield for the senior man.

The Colin Evans Shiled for the best junior went to Arron Parsons, of Bream, and the coveted Don James Trophy for the best newcomer was awarded to new volunteer Andrew Jenkins, of Cinderford.

The Annual Community Award for dedication and service to the people of the Forest communities was made to Mrs Tessa Whitehouse, of Longhope, and Nathan Fisher was awarded the Sports Pesonality of the Year cup for his success in winning the Scottish senior powerlifting championship. Community certificates were presented to volunteers Hilary Doyles, Charles Collins, John and Heather Pearce, James Seaward, Andrew Jenkins and Adam Webb.

Ceri Evans praised the work of the centre and bouquets were presented to Mrs Evans and Mrs Barbara Elliott for her work in supporting the centre's GP referral system.

The evening ended with a concert by the Belle Vue Singers from St Stephen's Church, Cinderford.