West Devon’s Mayor has praised those making outstanding contributions to their communities in the borough through this year’s West Devon Mayoral Awards.
The awards celebrate outstanding people deserving of public recognition for their unpaid work or contributions to their community in the borough. Their contributions can take different shapes and sizes, but their contributions are always profound.
West Devon’s Mayor, Cllr Paul Vachon, said: “In West Devon we are blessed with having so many people and groups with foresight, empathy and dedication to help and support our communities.
“They deserve public recognition, but quite often do not seek it. These awards are our way of saying thank you. Your contributions to our communities are an inspiration to us all.”
This year’s winners are:
- The West Devon Mayoral Award for Under 18s
Barnaby Ryder has been recognised for raising the profile of West Devon at both local and national level through a solo channel swim. Barnaby swam 21 miles across the channel, raising more than £5,000 for the ManUp? Charity, which supports men’s mental health issues.
- The West Devon Mayoral Award for Over 18s
Tracey Gyllenship was recognised for her outstanding commitment to supporting people living with fibromyalgia. The chronic disorder is characterised by widespread pain all over the body and other debilitating symptoms like fatigue, muscle stiffness, problems with mental processes and insomnia.
Receiving a commendation in this category is Roy Young; he is involved with many projects and groups in Horrabridge, and has helped to shape the village community over many years.
- The West Devon Mayoral Award for an organisation
The Drewe Arms Community Pub Committee have won this award for saving The Drewe Arms, a cherished village pub and a listed building. The committee has a group of dedicated volunteers who take on numerous tasks to make the pub the best it can be, including front of house work, help in the kitchen, gardening, maintenance and DIY and more. Their work has helped to preserve not just the pub, but the community spirit of Drewsteignton.
Tavistock Library was also recognised in this category for being a vibrant community hub and an outstanding asset to the town and surrounding rural area, whose contributions go far beyond the traditional role of a library.
- The Mayor’s Green Award
Pam Pemberton has won the Green Award for setting up West Devon’s only hedgehog sanctuary, Greatfield Hedgehog Rescue. Her compassion, commitment and enthusiasm for our prickly garden visitors rubs off on all who meet her and she has a strong volunteer base who care for sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs.
- The Mayor’s Award for Long Service
Edwina and Robin Hill have lived in Belstone for well over 40 years. Throughout they have contributed significantly to the village community, as well as to Devon charities more widely. They are actively involved with the village hall, and have also been trustees of the Mary Budding Trust, a charity supporting children with additional needs in West Devon.
