A DEDICATED youth worker from Yelverton competed against three others from the South West for the Volunteer of the Year title during a special awards ceremony last Friday. Philip Hamilton, 66, beat off hundreds of hopefuls just to be nominated for the award, and took part in a glittering ceremony held by the Prince's Trust in Bournemouth. Volunteers from across the South West were honoured in several categories by the Prince's Trust at the high profile Celebrate Success Awards. In attendance was the Trust's celebrity ambassador Martin Clunes who, together with other dignitaries, witnessed the finalists' stories. For the past six years Philip has been a valuable and pro-active volunteer for the trust in Devon and Cornwall. He has supported and encouraged 18 young entrepreneurs who have set-up in business with the Prince's Trust help and is also an active member of the business start-up panel. Philip did not win the award but said he was delighted to even be shortlisted. Philip said: 'It's a great feeling to be nominated for this award and I'm very proud and excited. ' I can't wait to continue volunteering for the charity for many years to come and hope that other people will feel inspired to volunteer too.' The Celebrate Success Awards honour the achievements of disadvantaged young people supported by the trust who have succeeded against the odds. The charity works with 14 to 30 year olds in the UK and gives them practical and financial support, developing skills such as confidence and motivation.
