Living Streets has announced its shortlist for the Charles Maher Award - Walking Champion 2021, which includes Cheshire East's Cllr Suzie Akers Smith.

After a year that has seen streets improved so people can walk while socially distancing and seen more people walking for exercise, the charity is keen to celebrate the people who made this possible and embraced walking.

The Living Streets Charles Maher Award - Walking Champion 2021 recognises an individual, local group or organisation that has campaigned to benefit people in their local community.

This year saw the charity receive a record number of nominations, which have been shortlisted down to eight.

Reacting to her nomination, Cllr Akers Smith, a Congleton ward councillor, said: "There are many excellent candidates and being nominated was lovely, but being shortlisted for this award is recognition for all the hours I put and that really motivates me to carry on helping our residents in Cheshire East."

All the candidates have made streets safer and cleaner, promoted inclusion, pioneered low traffic solutions, demonstrated creativity and innovation and used walking to tackle to the pressures of the coronavirus pandemic.

Under the shortlist section, Cllr Akers Smith's nomination states: "From 20mph and pavement parking, to fundraising for all manner of active travel, Suzie, an East Cheshire Councillor, has been irrepressible in her campaigning for walking and cycling in a rather car-dominated area, liaising directly with fellow councillors in her role as cycling and walking champion."

Mary Creagh, chief executive of Living Streets, said: "We know there are some dedicated people out there who work tirelessly for their local community to transform their streets into safer and more attractive places.

"We want to recognise the brilliant work they've done which has helped people to stay healthy, happy and connected during the pandemic."

Members of living streets will now vote for their winner, with the award presented at Living Street's national walking summit on Thursday, 18th March 2021.