IT was an overwhelming night as the first winners of the new Health and Care Award at the Dunfermline Press and Central Fife Times Community Champion Awards were named.

Kenny Armour and James Scade were recognised for their work with Andy’s Man Club in the Fife area.

The pair have been instrumental in their work as facilitators for the organisation which is a peer-help drop-in group for men.

Kenny heads up the facilitators for local groups in Fife.

He participates in and also coordinates many of the meetings and activities, assists in training of facilitators and other logistical activities.

He inspires many others in Fife to participate and when they are able to go on and help others by facilitating in meetings themselves, he is always available to provide support.

Across the Kingdom, multiple activities are arranged to bring men together outside the Monday meeting format and get active by playing sports such as five-a-side football, boxing, gym activities,or to participate in hobbies such as horticulture and quizzes.

All of these activities help to boost the mental health of the hundreds of attendees. Many people who come to club feel vulnerable, but by talking with peers will find out they are not alone.

James was one of the key facilitators in setting up the Andy’s Man Club in Cowdenbeath.

He owes his life to the support network after his own troubles with suicidal thoughts and being ‘lifted by police’ at his lowest points.

Since getting involved, he has turned his life around and is a credit to himself and his family.

James has has arranged fundraisers for the charity and has played a key role in community outreach for Andy’s Man Club Cowdenbeath with local businesses and other community groups working with the organisation to raise awareness.

Both were overwhelmed to receive the award.

Kenny said: “To have that recognition is nice especially when you see all the other categories.

“It has transformed my life.

“I am in the position to work for the charity but I still walk through the door for my own benefit.

“Without Andy’s Man Club, there are a lot of people in Fife who would not be standing today.”

James added: “I am quite shocked to be honest.

“Two years ago, I was not wanting to be here. I am now in a position where I am happy in life.

“It is humbling.”