West Devon residents urged to nominate unsung heroes for Mayoral Awards

West Devon Borough Council is calling for nominations for its 2026 Mayoral Awards, which celebrate individuals, groups and organisations making a difference in local communities.

The awards recognise outstanding contributions by people who give their time or effort without payment, from supporting community projects to protecting the environment.

Nominations are now open, with winners announced at a ceremony on 24 March at the council offices at Kilworthy Park in Tavistock.

West Devon Mayor Paul Vachon said: “This is the 28th year of the awards, and are our way of highlighting people, groups and organisations who work to significantly benefit our communities through their selfless actions.

“The impact that people make can take many different shapes and sizes; there are many dynamic individuals out there doing terrific things in West Devon, whether that’s being a stalwart supporting a long-standing community sports team or village hall, or someone doing work to protect and enhance our beautiful environment.

“Our previous winners have supported people where they live, led on dynamic projects, or been stalwarts working hard to support important community groups, buildings and institutions.

“We are all looking forward to hearing about these stories, so please send in your nominations today and help us to honour those people in West Devon who may be our unsung heroes.”

There are four award categories this year:

• West Devon Mayoral Award for Under 18s – celebrating noteworthy achievements by residents under the age of 18.

• West Devon Mayoral Award for Over 18s / organisation – recognising adults or organisations whose work has enhanced the borough’s reputation nationally.

• Mayor’s Green Award – for individuals or groups making a significant contribution to conservation and protection of West Devon’s natural environment.

• Mayor’s Award for Long Service – for people who have given long-standing service to community groups, local volunteering, or worked to improve the lives of others in the borough.

Judges for the awards will include the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Council Leader and Leader of the Opposition.

Nominations can be submitted online, with details of why the nominee deserves recognition. The deadline for entries is Friday 20 February.

More information and nomination forms are available at www.westdevon.gov.uk/mayoral-awards .