Following dozens of local nominations for the Covid Community Champions Awards run by Hexham MP Guy Opperman, the first winners have now been presented with their certificates. The Coronavirus Community Champions Awards, launched in March, honour those who have carried out selfless work in support of an individual or community over the past year. Mr Opperman took the opportunity of a visit to the Tyne Valley from Conservative Party Chair, Rt Hon Amanda Milling MP, to come and present the award to Deborah Blackburn in Prudhoe. Deborah was nominated by her daughter Joanna. She said her mum was incredible, after the retired NHS worker signed up to cover shifts through the NHS bank throughout the first lockdown.