TWO York businessmen who have spearheaded community transformation projects have received praise from the Prime Minister alongside a national award win.

Richard Elam and Mark Reynolds of Clifton Moor based Evora Construction are the latest recipients of a Point of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others.

Two years ago the duo took charge of the ‘Big Community Challenge’ in partnership with the York Cares charity to transform a community site in three days, with the help of 200 employee volunteers from local businesses, and are now onto their third project.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: "Richard and Mark’s Big Community Challenge is a fantastic example of the power of volunteers and what can be achieved when communities come together.

"I want to congratulate Richard and Mark on their brilliant projects in York."

The pair's first project in 2012 saw them turn an unused playing field at Haxby Road Primary into an outdoor classroom which doubles up as a community garden.

In 2013, the team then transformed an adventure playground into a multi-purpose area for everyone to use. Before the challenge, it was well used by 8-13 year olds but provided no facilities for parents and young children. It now has a shelter, seating, a scooter ramp, a willow den and a bug hotel.

For this year’s Big Community Challenge, Mr Elam and Mr Reynolds are currently scoping a community centre and grounds in York with the idea of transforming an old play area into a garden for older residents, including those with dementia.

Mr Elam visits sites six months in advance to assess their suitability to be part of the project, and Mr Reynolds acts as the site manager during the challenge. Their company Evora Construction then calls on its supply chains to donate materials and labour for the challenges.

The pair said: "This award is really a team effort for all of the people who give back to the York community through these challenges.

"We got involved because running a small business means we don’t have the opportunity to give something every day or month, so we decided that we’d condense everything that we do to make a big impact three days once a year.

"It’s hugely rewarding as well as a great way for the community to come together and have fun through hard work."