STAFF from Renfrewshire Leisure were handed the chance to shine at their annual awards bash.

The Star Awards were hosted by radio presenter Gina McKie at Johnstone Town Hall, where prizes were handed out to staff working in local sports centres, swimming pools, libraries, museums and community halls.

Among the honours presented was the Chief Executive’s Award for Outstanding Achievement, which went to Colin Pratt, Renfrewshire Leisure’s cultural venues development manager.

Team of the Year Award went to Johnstone Town Hall’s operations staff Jennifer Ann Northcote, Karen Pattison, Donald Hampson, Tracy Weir, Colin Smith, Geraldine Smith, Carol Harris and Katie Sweeney.

And tribute was paid to popular leisure manager Gerry Noble, who sadly died earlier this year, with the Noble Award for Young Achievers being presented to marketing support assistant Graham Barr.

Three employees - Natalie Stewart, Steve Truesdale and Carol Doyle - were commended for acts of heroism in helping to save people’s lives while they were off duty.

Renfrewshire Leisure chief executive Joyce McKellar said: “Our most important asset is our staff, as they are vital to provide a first-class sports, leisure and cultural service to the public.”