WEST Devon Mayor Cllr Christine Marsh has praised the passion and dedication of the borough's unsung heroes, who were recognised at this year's mayoral awards.

People from all walks of life gathered for the presentation evening on Tuesday, March 31 at West Devon Borough Council's Offices at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock.

The awards are given annually to individuals and organisations who work to make life better for their local communities.

Cllr Marsh said: 'It's always good to be able to celebrate achievements and these awards do this admirably.

'It is fantastic to hear about so much amazing work going on in the borough and to reward those who work so hard to improve it.

'I would like to thank everyone who took part and those who attended the presentation — it was a wonderful occasion!' 

The first accolade of the night went to Mark Lewis from Tavistock who won the Under 18s Award.

Mark was nominated for his ongoing work with the Tavy Specials Football Club, where he coaches young people and adults with severe learning difficulties or disabilities.

He was very touched to receive his award, saying: 'It's a privilege because I really enjoy what I do. It's really special to support less able people.'

The Over 18s or Organisation Award was shared this year by Chris Marson and David Youle.

Chris has been instrumental in contributing to the community of Northlew through various projects, including organising a First World War memorial and securing broadband for the village. Chris was unable to attend the presentation evening, but the mayor delivered his award to him personally. Speaking of Chris, Cllr Marsh said: 'He has done so much for the fabric and community of Northlew and is an extremely worthy recipient.'

David was recognised for his outstanding commitment to the Church House in South Tawton. In 2005, the future of the house was uncertain, and David set out to raise sufficient money to plan Church House's future sustainability obtaining grants from a number of trusts and charities.

David said: 'It was very unexpected. The whole project has been going on for ten years now and it's tremendous to be recognised in this way.

'The great thing about it is that you meet so many lovely people along the way.'

The mayor's Green Award went to Brian Wilkinson for his work as project manager for the restoration of the 'Forgotten Garden of Lewtrenchard'.

After receiving the award Brian said: 'I'm very honoured but I'm really just one of a team and we all contribute. It's a bit of escapism for me; a chance to recreate the countryside as it was when I was a child, with the birds and the insects.'

For more information about the West Devon Mayoral Awards, visit http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk