TWO groups and two individuals have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to the life and community of a South Hams town.

Ziggy Grewal and Paul Jones along with Ivybridge U3A and The Bridge Youth Project have received The David Britton Citizen of the Year and Nick Cummins Community Group of the Year awards.

The winners were selected by Ivybridge Town Council and given their awards at the recent meeting of the full council.

Mayor of Ivybridge Cllr David Gray-Taylor said on behalf of the council he wanted to thank the winners for making such a contribution to Ivybridge.

First to receive the prize was Ziggy Grewal, recognised for his input to sport in the town, in particular the organisation of the Ivybridge Big Event. Accepting the award, he said: ’Thanks to everyone involved, I was quite surprised when I heard.

’Although the award is presented to one person, there are a lot of people in the background to make things happen. I’m accepting this award with all those people in mind, and I’d like to say thank you to them.’

Next The Bridge Youth Project collected their award, which was given ’in recognition of the services provided in the town on Fridays, when the refreshment vehicle is staffed by volunteers’. The project offers drinks and snacks and a chance to chat to young people on Friday nights, and is a partnership between Ivybridge Methodist Church, Ivybridge Salvation Army Church and Ivybridge Youth For Christ.

Present to receive the award were Caroline Hodgson, Sara Hladkij, Malcolm and Beverley Knightley, and Elis Norton. Mr Knightley said: ’We’re representing a big team, a collaboration of different groups and churches. It’s been quite exciting, and it’s an honour to represent all those who are taking part in the project.’

U3A chairman Ray Waudby accepted the Nick Cummins award on behalf of the group, for its work with the ’third generation’ preventing loneliness and isolation. He said: ’I’d like to offer a huge thank you, you’re doing us a great honour and I’m very proud to receive the award.

’We’re also very proud to be regarded as such an asset to our town.’

Paul Jones of the U3A was the second recipient of the David Britton Award, for his ’stalwart contribution to the Ivybridge U3A, and the production of the quarterly magazine that is sent to all members’. He could not be present at the meeting to receive his award in person.

A spokesman for the town council said: ’Ivybridge has many incredible volunteers who do a fantastic job in the town.

’The continuing selfless endeavours of these volunteers are very much appreciated.’