AWARDS have been given to three special people for their excellent work they do at Colchester’s Military Corrective Training Centre.

They were given to a pianist who has volunteered for 37 years, a member of staff who helps those leaving the Armed Forces to get jobs and a sergeant who helps those at the centre to turn their behaviour around.

The MCTC is a facility for Armed Forces detainees based in Berechurch Road.

Yesterday three High Sheriff of Essex Awards were handed out to people who have made an outstanding contribution to maintaining law and order.

High Sheriff Vincent Thompson said: “It is a great honour to be here.

“The military is part of the great Essex family.”

He praised the work they do, the way they do it and the help they provide during a ceremony in front of 100 people at the centre.

Lieutenant Colonel Gary McDade, who runs the centre, also praised all three winners for their exceptional efforts.

Ann Morris has been the pianist at St Michael’s Church at the MCTC since 1978.

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She began when her husband was posted to Colchester Garrison after being asked to do an occasional service.

37 years later she still cycles in from New Town to play every Sunday.

Mrs Morris is well known around the Garrison and in the town.

She sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and has arranged numerous outings for children of Service families.

She also runs an allotment, is a leading light in the New Town Community Garden and volunteers for the National Trust at Bourne Mill.

Her citation read: “Mrs Morris is a typical unsung heroine. She does not seek the limelight and is willing to go the extra mile.

“Recognition for her valuable service at MCTC, and selfless commitment to community life in Colchester, would be welcomed by all who knew her.”

Mrs Morris said: “I was very surprised when I heard about this.

“I always played as a child and have done this since i arrived in 78’/ “I am very pleased but it was a shock.

“I enjoy coming in, playing and speaking to the people here.

Her favourite hymn is God is Our Strength and Refuge, better known as the Dambusters’ theme.

Kimberley Roberts only started her current role in January 2015 but has made a big impact.

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Her job is to deliver courses and prepare detainees, who have been ordered to leave the Armed Forces, for civilian life by helping them to get a job and have a brighter future.

She has received praise from those who run and those who are detained at the MCTC during her two years there carrying out different roles.

She said: “I was pleasantly surprised and really honoured to receive this. It is always nice to be recognised.

“I help them with their CVs, covering letters and interviews.

“It is quite a transition for them in a small space of time.

“They take a lot of what they do in the military for granted but they pick up a lot of skills.

“It is the most rewarding job I have done.”

She said the best part of the job is seeing someone she has helped begin their new life as a civilian with a brighter future.

Her citation reads: “Kim receives high praise from detainees for the support and knowledge she imparts, providing them with the skills and pre-requisites for future employment, training and education.

“Kim is a worthy nominee for this prestigious award.

Sergeant Gareth Thomas is in charge of inductions at the MCTC.

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Having served twice in Afghanistan and Iraq he started at the centre in 2010.

He has worked as a dog handler, carried out training in Malawi and helped run a custody facility in Canada.

His citation reads: “Sgt Thomas’ personable nature, selfless commitment and professional bearing make him an excellent ambassador.”

He said: “I am shocked to receive the award.

“I wanted to come here to help with rehabilitation.

“More guys are coming with mental health issues and they are getting the best care possible here.”

He said people leave, to either go back into service or civilian life, in a much better position than when they arrive.

Sgt Thomas, of Military Provost Staff, added: “Often a few months later you get thank you letters.

“They come in as tearaways and leave as better guys.”

Sgt Thomas has six years left in the Army and then plans to move to the US with his American fiancee who is in the US Air Force.