West Devon honours inspiring community heroes at Mayoral Awards ceremony

West Devon’s community spirit was firmly in the spotlight as this year’s Mayoral Awards celebrated the people and organisations making a lasting difference across the borough.

Held earlier this year, the awards recognised individuals and groups whose dedication, compassion and voluntary efforts have helped strengthen communities throughout West Devon.

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The Mayor of West Devon, Paul Vachon, praised the winners and nominees, highlighting the depth of commitment found across the area.

“In West Devon we are blessed with having so many people and groups with foresight, empathy and dedication to help and support our communities,” he said. 

“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.”

Among the standout winners was Barnaby Ryder, who received the Under 18s award after completing an extraordinary solo Channel swim. 

Covering 21 miles, Barnaby raised more than £5,000 for the ManUp? Charity, helping to shine a light on men’s mental health.

The Over 18s award went to Tracey Gyllenship for her tireless support of those living with fibromyalgia, a condition that can cause widespread pain, fatigue and other debilitating symptoms. 

A commendation in the same category was awarded to Roy Young, recognised for his long-standing contribution to community life in Horrabridge.

In the organisation category, the Drewe Arms Community Pub Committee was honoured for its efforts in saving the historic The Drewe Arms. 

Through the work of dedicated volunteers, the pub has been preserved not only as a building but as a vital hub of community life in Drewsteignton.

Tavistock Library was also recognised for its role as a vibrant and much-valued community space serving both the town and surrounding rural areas.

Environmental efforts were celebrated with the Mayor’s Green Award, presented to Pam Pemberton for establishing Greatfield Hedgehog Rescue. The sanctuary, the only one of its kind in West Devon, provides care for sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs while inspiring a growing network of volunteers.

Meanwhile, the Long Service Award was presented to Edwina Hill and Robin Hill, who have spent more than four decades contributing to village life in Belstone and supporting charities across the region, including the Mary Budding Trust.

The awards once again highlighted the quiet dedication of volunteers and community champions across West Devon, individuals and groups whose efforts, often behind the scenes, continue to make a profound difference to the lives of others.