The local creative arts were celebrated at a mayoral reception in Kenilworth last week.

The event brought together local organisations and artists to celebrate the work that they do to support the creative arts.

It was also an opportunity to network, share information and explore how creativity can grow in the town.

Mayor of Kenilworth, Cllr James Kennedy, awarded two Mayoral Awards of Merit at the event.

The first to Jan Burnell in recognition of her work establishing 'Kenilworth All Together Greener'.

As part of his speech, Cllr Kennedy said: "KATG has had an extraordinary influence across our town, and is, I think, a model of how to achieve high-impact community action with resources limited to the people who make it happen.

"And the success is a testimony to Jan's energy and enthusiasm and commitment, and for this it gives me great pleasure to give her a Mayor's Merit award this year."

The Mayoral Reception was held last week (image supplied)

Download our Mobile App!

The second award was given to Aaron Dudley, English Teacher and Head of Year 10 at Kenilworth School & Sixth Form and leader of the KMAT Great Debate.

Cllr Kennedy continued: "It is more important than ever that young people learn the skills of debating: face-to-face, listening carefully to what the other person is saying, and putting across their own opinions respectfully and truthfully.

"Aaron has made Kenilworth School a leader in the teaching of debating skills.

"This benefits not only the students from the school and other schools that take part, but also the whole of our community in Kenilworth so that our young people can grow into the good citizens of tomorrow.

"So it is with great pleasure that I am giving Aaron the Mayor's Award of Merit for this year."