Sherford siblings shine at Plymouth Youth Awards

This month, Plymouth celebrated its most inspiring young people at the YMCA Plymouth Youth Awards, where siblings from Sherford emerged as standout figures. The Sherford Consortium has extended its congratulations to the exceptional duo, commending their dedication and hard work.

The YMCA Plymouth Youth Awards cover 16 categories, honouring young individuals from across the city who are making a positive impact in their communities. Among the recipients, Sherford’s Toby Edgeler was awarded Young Fundraiser of the Year, while his sister Isabelle Edgeler was a finalist for Entrepreneur of the Year.

Despite facing significant adversity, Toby and Isabelle have made remarkable strides in helping others. Their father, a soldier, tragically took his own life after battling PTSD. In the wake of this trauma, the siblings have sought to bring hope and aid to others in need.

Isabelle’s Initiative: When the Syrian earthquake struck, Isabelle was moved to take action, raising funds for the Red Cross appeal. At just seven years old, she spent her school holidays handcrafting hundreds of bracelets. Braving all weather conditions, she set up a stall outside her home in Sherford, and through community support and a local Facebook page, she managed to raise £232 for the appeal.

Toby’s Triumph: Following the loss of his father, Toby received support from Jeremiah’s Journey, a local charity assisting children and families with bereavement. Now ten years old, Toby shared his experience in a powerful video to raise awareness for the charity. He has since become an official ambassador for Jeremiah’s Journey, continuing to raise awareness and essential funds for the organisation.

The Sherford Consortium, a partnership between national housebuilders Taylor Wimpey and Vistry Group, has recognised the siblings' community spirit. In honour of their kindness and generosity, the Consortium is matching Isabelle’s fundraising efforts with a £232 donation to the same charity appeal.

Additionally, Isabelle and Toby have been invited to be the first to play on Sherford’s new pitches when they open this summer. As a token of appreciation, the siblings have also been gifted vouchers to treat themselves, acknowledging their contributions to others.

Rachael Edgeler, mother of Toby and Isabelle, expressed her pride, saying: "The awards have been an amazing celebration of the incredible young people we have in the city. I am so proud of Toby for winning Young Fundraiser of the Year and of Isabelle for being a finalist in Entrepreneur of the Year. They inspire me every day with their selfless attitude, compassion for others, and resilience despite grieving the loss of their dad."

Louise Yung from Taylor Wimpey, part of the Sherford Consortium, added: "We were deeply moved by Isabelle and Toby’s stories and immensely impressed by their efforts. They epitomise the community spirit, kindness, and volunteerism that Sherford is known for. The support from Sherford residents for their fundraising efforts has been wonderful, and we wanted to recognise and support them as well."