It was an emotional night for those present at the Aber First Awards on Friday, when Cllr Paul James was posthumously honoured for his work in the community.

The Paul James Award has been created in recognition of his lifelong commitment to the town. Accepting the award on behalf of the late councillor, Paul’s widow, Jane, thanked everyone for their support.

As in previous years, MC Ioan Guile kept everyone entertained as the awards, which took place at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, were presented by a variety of sponsors.

The winners of the awards, organised by Menter Aberystwyth, were:

Celebrating New Business, sponsored Gwe Cambrian Web – Gwdih? Camping

Rising Star, sponsored by Electrical Estimates – Ryan Sutherland

Shopping Experience, sponsored by Advancing Aberystwyth – Spellbound

The Green Award, sponsored by No21 Flowers – Llechwedd Mawr

Happily Ever After, sponsored by Calon Events – Steilio Dots

Milestone of the Year, sponsored by St Michael’s Church – T J Davies and Son

Event of the Year 2018 Public Choice Award – The Big Tribute Festival

Welsh Language Award, sponsored by Cwmni Arad Goch – Gwe Cambrian Web

Food & Drink, sponsored by Aberystwyth Farmers’ Market – Medina

Best Aber Welcome, sponsored by Driftwood Designs – Ceredigion Museum

Promoting the Arts, sponsored by Aberystwyth Arts Centre – Academi Gerdd y Lli

Outstanding Contribution to the Community, sponsored by the Cambrian News – Lee Coulson and Keith Jones

The evening’s overall winner was T J Davies and Son.

For more pictures from the night, see this week’s paper or go to our photos website