Stroke survivors and their carers have been recognised for their courage and hard work.

Three Maldon residents each received Highly Commended certificates celebrating their work at the Stroke Association Life After Stroke Awards for the East of England.

Regional head of operations Sara Betsworth said: “A stroke happens in an instant and often changes lives forever.

“Our regional event highlights the tremendous courage people like Stephen, Diana and Claire have shown in rebuilding their lives after a stroke.”

Diana Daniels, 69, of Washington Close, Maldon, had a stroke aged 65, in March 2011, which left her with right-sided weakness and limited speech.

She was nominated for an art award after creating more than 400 Christmas cards to raise money for the association.

Her partner, Stephen Parks, was nominated for a carer award after caring for Diana since her stroke.

Claire Layley, of Provide, works with stroke victims at St Peter’s Hospital, Maldon, and in their own homes, to help their rehabilitation.

She said she was “very touched and quite embarrassed” to be nominated for the Professional Excellence award.

She said: “It’s a very rewarding job and I have a very enthusiastic and hard-working team.”

“Rehab can make a massive difference.

"We have people that are being hoisted when they first come to us and they are able to go home walking.

“We are also able to support families and patients to use different communication strategies to cope, if their speech is impaired."

The three received their certificates at a celebratory event at the Bedford Lodge Hotel in Newmarket.