THE passion and dedication of unsung heroes in the area were praised last week by the West Devon mayor. People from all walks of life gathered for this year's mayoral awards' presentation evening at West Devon Borough Council's Offices at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock. The awards are given to individuals and organisations who work to make life better for their local communities. Mayor Cllr William Cann said: 'People from across the borough have been recognised this year.  'We had a particularly high number of nominations and it was a privilege to hear about so much amazing work going on in our area. 'I was particularly delighted to have so many nominations for young people who make a significant contribution to life in the borough. 'I would like to thank everyone who took part and those who attended the presentation evening — it was a really wonderful occasion!' The first accolade of the night went to Rebecca Venning from Bere Alston who won the under 18s award. Rebecca was nominated for her work with local youth projects. She said: 'This award shows that youth work deserves to be recognised at a fundamental level and because it is so great for the community. This means so much and I hope it doesn't end here.' The Tavistock Memory Café won the over 18s organisation award in recognition of its ongoing work to support people living with dementia and their carers. The award was collected by secretary Heather Rayne and vice chairman Alan Payne. Mr Payne said: 'Dementia is a killer of social life and at the Tavistock Memory Café it is our task to do something about that. 'It is a relaxed, secure, friendly atmosphere where people don't have to worry about being judged. People love coming along. All this hard work is recognised by this award and we are very grateful.' The Mayor's green award went to Sticklepath and Okehampton Conservation (StOC) for more than 20 years of work in north Dartmoor to protect and enhance the local environment. After receiving the award on behalf of the group, co-coordinator Mike Watson said: 'We work every Friday doing difficult tasks in inclement weather. Sometimes we wonder if anyone notices or cares. 'So getting this award is such a boost and we are delighted to know we really are appreciated.' In the under 18s category, Francesca Diepenbroek from Hatherleigh was highly commended for helping to raise funds for a new skatepark in the town along with Lucy Poyntz for her work with a befriending project at Tavistock Area Support Services. Highly commended certificates also went to Barry Woods for his work in supporting the community of Belstone and Mary Worth for forming the Tavistock Physically Challenged Group. Horrabridge Scout Group was highly commended for its work on a new scout hut and activity area, along with composting and recycling organisation Proper Job of Chagford.