THE winners of Civic Awards for their service to the community have been announced.
Wells City Council had invited nominations from the public for the individuals, groups and businesses that deserved recognition for making a difference in the local area.
The council has now revealed that the award-winners are:
Citizen of the Year: Philip Welch, for his extensive work with ten local charities, organising events and his general contribution to the city’s wellbeing. One nomination said “He is everywhere,” another “Always ready to help make a difference.”
Volunteer of the Year: Emma Lefevre, for her tireless work with Project Factory and Wells Community Network to organise community events, stir people into action and bring local organisations together for the benefit of the citizens of Wells.
Community Organisation of the Year: Wells Community Network, for its diverse work in the community including support for the Covid vaccination programme, with Ukrainian refugees, and now with the trishaw project.
Business of the Year: Wells Voice, for playing a crucial role in keeping local people informed, supporting local events and building a stronger community. Ever reliable and packed with news. Essential reading for residents.
Senior Sportsperson of the Year: Thomas Palacio, for running three marathons in three days to raise money for Brain Tumour Research’s work to find a cure. One of his best friends had died from this condition.
Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Reuben Ashton, who has played hockey for Somerset, football for Wells City Under-16s, cricket for his school team and local clubs, swum for his school in the Olympic pool in London and has a golf handicap of 16.9.
Young Person of the Year: Archie Sanguinetti, a normally shy six-year-old boy, for his kindness in selling some of his toys from a stall in front of his home to raise money for The Lawrence Centre charity.
Environmental Champion: Maddy Milnes, who has supported neighbours to plant wildflower verges for five years and leads a pilot project with community volunteers to naturalise the verges along Tor Hill Lane.
Extra Mile Award: Kevin Westwood, for his wonderful and inspirational support to so many people in Wells for more than 34 years. Nothing is too much trouble for Kevin. The winners will each receive a trophy at a gala awards evening being held at the Town Hall on Friday, January 12.
• Picture: Assistant Town Clerk Claire Woodland with one of the awards trophies