SOUTH Wales rolled out the red carpet to top celebrities and local heroes last night for the annual Welsh awards.

The glitzy ceremony at St David's Hall, Cardiff, brought an array of household names including ex-Stereophonics drummer Stuart Cable, former HearSay star Noel Sullivan and Big Brovaz's Lisa Jaynes.

They were joined by Welsh actors Matthew Rhys, Emma Mountford and Rhian Grundy, of BBC's Casualty.

Sports stars Matt Elias, Ben Evans and Rupert Moon all turned out for the celebration of Welsh achievements.

The evening's winners included Popstars The Rivals star Javine, who took the best newcomer gong, and Stuart Cable, who won the award for favourite personality.

During the ceremony guests were entertained by Welsh Fame Academy hopeful James Fox and singing sensation Amy Stut.

Among the evening's winners was 80-year-old Jack Ritter.

Mr Ritter took the South Wales Argus-sponsored Local Hero of the Year award and said: "I am absolutely delighted but this is not just for me, it is for everyone who works for the Gaer community."

He added he had seen his community change enormously over the years. "People lost their enthusiasm for caring and people don't appreciate the estate they live in," he said.

"If I had one piece of advice for youngsters, it would be to be respectful - it's as simple as that."

Mr Ritter received his award from Wales rugby star Ben Evans, who flew back from Australia with his team mates on Wednesday.

The pensioner was nominated for the award by the Gaer Community Network in recognition of his commitment and dedication to the Gaer Community First group. Vicky Campbell, of the Gaer Community Network, said: "As our chairman he has shown great dedication despite now being in his eighties and suffering ill health.

"He puts himself out to help other residents by offering lifts and keeping an eye on his neighbours' well-being."

A former magistrate and chairman of the local football association, Mr Ritter has still found time for his community, despite also nursing his mother and sister through ill health.

Vicky added: "Anyone who comes into contact with Jack will tell you he's one in a million and he fully deserves this. Jack is genuinely interested in the community and is a role model to us all."