community representatives in?West Devon were honoured at a special ceremony hosted by the borough's mayor last Friday.

Andy Bradford, of Brimpts Farm, Exbourne's Burrow Community Shop and Café, and community fundraiser Paul Gentle were all presented with a Mayoral Award by Cllr Robin Musgrave at the 'Celebrating West Devon Reception' in the borough council chamber at Tavistock.

The fourth winner, teenage sailing instructor Jo Coomber, could not make the ceremony and will be presented with her award at a later date.

The awards are given annually to people who work to make life better for the borough and its communities.

Cllr Musgrave said: 'In my role as mayor, I have met so many people who work tirelessly to enrich the lives of local residents in so many ways. It is a privilege to be able to recognise the commitment of just a few of these dedicated individuals with these awards.

'My congratulations and thanks goes to all our winners and everyone who gives up their time to help others in West Devon.'

The 2013 Award for Community and Voluntary Effort went to Paul Gentle from Bere Alston, who was nominated by Bere Ferrers Parish Council for being the 'driving force' behind the Beregen Partnership which has helped to raise funds for the redevelopment of the local parish hall.

Paul said: 'I'm really delighted that Bere Alston is getting this recognition. I've accepted this award on behalf of a whole team of people.

'I would like to thank the borough council for its support over the years. After eleven years living in West Devon, I'm pleased to be able to make a contribution to community life.'

There were joint winners for this year's Mayor's Green Award which recognises outstanding effort to promote environmental conservation and sustainability across the borough.

One of the recipients, Andy Bradford from Brimpts Farm on Dartmoor, was nominated by Dartmoor Partnership Ltd for his efforts in sustainable tourism, farm diversification and reducing the carbon footprint of his business.

Andy said: 'This award came out of the blue and we are delighted to be recognised for our efforts in being green.

'I would like to thank the Dartmoor Partnership for nominating us and giving us this opportunity to spread the word about our work at Brimpts Farm.'

The other Green Award winner was The Burrow Community Shop and Café at Exbourne, which is built under a field in the centre of the village.

Manager Lucy Baker said: 'It is lovely to be recognised with this award after just a year in operation. It has been a lot of hard work but well worth it. We shall put this award on the wall of our shop and café for all our customers to see.'

Jo Coomber, 16, from Bere Alston won the Under 18s Award.

She is a qualified RYA dinghy instructor and was nominated by Bere Ferrers Parish Council for her 'positive approach' and talent in sailing.

She said: 'I was surprised and delighted to receive this award. Weir Quay Sailing Club has given me so much over the last six years and it is fantastic to be able to give something back to the club and my community by helping other young people learn to sail and appreciate the river.'

All the winners received a framed certificate.