SEVERAL community heroes from across the West Somerset and Taunton areas have been recognised for their unstinting service to the areas in which they live, work or volunteer.

A number of people across the county have been awarded a Somerset Council Chair’s Award, which was presented by councillor Mike Best at Taunton Rugby Football Club.

Cllr Best, chairman of Somerset Council, was joined at the ceremony by the nominees, their guests, and deputy leader of Somerset Council, Liz Leyshon.

The award recipients were nominated by their city, town and parish councils in recognition of their outstanding contribution to their communities.

The full list of winners for the West Somerset and Taunton areas include; John Lewis (Taunton), Mike Marshall (Ruishton), Richard Holland (Staple Fitzpaine), Alan Hall (West Monkton), Kevin Sully (Dunster), Mandy Bool (Fitzhead), Paul Hart (Neroche), the Kingston St Mary Village Hall Committee, Ian Aldridge (Watchet and Williton), Jenny Barker (Dulverton), Ian Duncan (Old Cleeve), Andrea Gibbs (Churchstanton), Graham Gleed (Stoke St Gregory), Charles Cudlip (Creech St Michael) David Patterson (Wiveliscombe), The Marion Evered Trust (Over Stowey), Liz Brown (Otterhampton) and Derek Buller (Fiddington).

The nine recipients who were unable to attend on the night will be visited by Cllr Best who will personally present their awards.

Cllr Best said: “We are fortunate to have so many people in Somerset who work hard on behalf of others in their town, parish or city. Every recipient has made a real difference to their communities and the awards ceremony is a small way of saying thank you. 

“It’s so rewarding and humbling to read the citations for these awards. Our community heroes do so much for others, never expecting to be rewarded for their efforts so it’s a privilege to thank them on behalf of the Council.”

Among the many individuals to be recognised was Mike Marshall, nominated by Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parish Council for giving over forty years of unwavering dedication and service to the Ruishton community.

There were 48 award winners in total including a posthumous honour for former Somerset Council, Somerton Town Council, and South Somerset District Council member Dean Ruddle, who was nominated by Somerton Town Council.