AN OKEHAMPTON woman has been recognised as being among the unsung heroes and heroines who make a significant contribution to voluntary community transport in Devon.

Nominations from across Devon were received for this year?s Community Transport Volunteer Awards organised by Devon County Council ? Pat Sawyer of Okehampton District Community Transport Group was among the 12 award winners.

Mrs Sawyer is a relatively new member of the group?s committee but was said to have brought a ?real enthusiasm and sense of fun to community transport.?

Mrs Sawyer has volunteered to take over the role of publicity and has also agreed to be vice-chairman.

The nomination citation said: ?She regularly travels on the bus in order for the committee to be closer to all its clients and this has strengthened our organisation.

?She even represents us on the local CVS committee, bringing the views of all our members to the forefront of voluntary matters.?

Mrs Sawyer received her certificate from Devon County Council?s chairman Cllr Mike Knight, at a special ceremony last month.

Cllr Knight said: ?Community transport is a lifeline for thousands of people, both young and old, across the county.

?This is a chance to acknowledge community transport champions who work tirelessly to ensure that people who rely on community transport receive a reliable and professional service.?

The Community Transport Awards, sponsored by Wessex LDV, are now in their fifth year.

Among those receiving awards for their hard work and dedication were volunteer drivers, co-ordinators, committee members and fundraisers from across the county.