THE achievements of community heroes were celebrated at the West Devon Borough Council Mayoral Awards ceremony last month.

Winners were Lydford fundraiser David Hocking, who has raised more than £43,000 for various charities, including the oncology and radiotherapy departments at Derriford Hospital. 

Mr Hocking, a cancer patient himself, was nominated by Bridestowe Parish Council. He won the over 18s award.

Jacobstowe teenager Oliver Hancox raised awareness and funds for Cancer Research by becoming the youngest person to sail across the English Channel single-handed. He is this year's winner of the under 18s award. 

Oliver, who was just 15 at the time of his challenge, lost his father to cancer in 2008. 

He was nominated by former West Devon Borough Councillor David Weeks.

Recognising achievements in the community, the Mayor's Green Award went to Bratton Clovelly Parish Hall Committee, for their successful renewable energy project.  They were nominated by Bratton Clovelly Parish Council.

The presentations were made by the mayor of West Devon, Cllr John Hockridge.