THERE was a packed house at the annual Rayleigh Town Council meeting.

About 100 people came to the meeting at Holy Trinity Church in Rectory Garth, Rayleigh. They included pupils from local primary schools and winners of the annual awards, as well as town councillors.

Awards were given to the town's high achievers. These included Harrison Atkins, 17, as sports person of the year for his footballing feats, while Joan Bell, 62, was named disabled sports person of the year for her achievements in badminton.

For more information on the council, call 01268 741881.