Tavistock volunteers celebrated as West Devon community spirit fills Town Hall
Volunteers from across Tavistock were recognised at a Town Hall celebration attended by local organisations involved in health, wellbeing, youth services, sport, heritage and the arts
Volunteers and community representatives recently gathered at Tavistock Town Hall for a special event celebrating the people who help support organisations and activities across the town.
The event, held on Sunday, May 17, was hosted by Tavistock Mayor Steve Hipsey and Consort Cathy Hipsey, with support from West Devon Community and Voluntary Services (WDCVS).
Representatives attended from a wide range of local groups involved in health and wellbeing, youth services, sport, heritage, music and the arts, reflecting the scale of voluntary work taking place across Tavistock.
Mayor Hipsey said the turnout had far exceeded expectations.
“The response was totally unexpected and really amazing,” he said.
He suggested the number of organisations represented showed just how many people in Tavistock are involved in volunteering, estimating that as many as one in every five or six residents may give their time to support local groups and activities.
Several attendees at the event felt the true figure could be even higher.
The gathering was organised to recognise and thank volunteers for the contribution they make to community life in Tavistock.
The event was coordinated by Dawn Todd, Community Engagement Coordinator at WDCVS, whose role is funded through the National Lottery Community Fund.
Working alongside WDCVS Chief Officer Brett Elliott, she helped bring together a large number of organisations from across the town.
Speaking after the event, Dawn said: “It was lovely to see so many groups represented from so many areas, including those supporting health and wellbeing and youth activities, to sport, heritage and music.
“These volunteers are the reason Tavistock is such a strong, supportive community with a thriving cultural scene.”
Throughout the afternoon there was a strong sense of community, with volunteers from different organisations meeting and sharing experiences.
Mayor Hipsey said volunteers continue to play an important role as Tavistock grows, praising the commitment and kindness shown by people who regularly give their time to support others.
He also thanked WDCVS for helping organise the event and paid tribute to Town Hall staff for hosting the gathering.
Additional thanks were given to Carol Myott of Flapjackery, who donated refreshments for attendees.
Organisers said the success of the event, believed to be the first of its kind held in Tavistock for several years, has raised hopes it could become a regular feature in the town’s civic calendar.