MORE people than ever were recognised for going above and beyond to help others during the pandemic at the annual Pride of Coleford Community Awards.

This year’s awards, which were held at The Main Place at the end of November, recognised some of the individuals and groups in the local community who "stepped up" to support others during times of uncertainty following the outbreak of Covid-19.

Coleford Mayor Councillor Nick Penny told assembled guests at the ceremony: "Our community, and in fact the community of the Forest of Dean, is made so special by the countless individuals and groups who give so much of their time, so freely, to help others. 

"These last 18 months have been unique, I have not seen a community response like this in my lifetime and it is something that has left me feel extremely proud of our community.

"This is the third time that I have had the privilege of hosting the Pride of Coleford Awards which I have seen grow from just five recipients in 2018, to 10 in 2019, and this year a staggering 23 individuals and groups have being recognised.

"My thanks to each and every one of you, and the hundreds of unsung heroes that we have in our community".

This year, The 1st Clearwell and Sling Scout Group were honoured for providing young people with regular communication and entertainment via weekly Zoom meetings, while the Angus Buchanan VC Memorial Recreation Trust were recognised for maintaining and providing access to the recreation ground, as well as raising funds to improve the children’s play area.

Forest Deli received an award for delivering fresh supplies to those who were shielding during lockdown, as did The Baguette Stop, who set up daily meetings in their courtyard for isolated residents.

Great Oaks Dean Forest Hospice received an award for the tireless efforts of their staff and volunteers in providing the best possible care for patients in challenging circumstances.

Marilyn and Stuart Cox were given a special Mayor’s Award for coordinating volunteer efforts to collect shopping and prescriptions for isolated residents during lockdown.

Neal Harden was honoured for volunteering with various groups, including as a driver for the Coleford Food Bank, while Sal Wozencroft was awarded for providing meals for vulnerable people at Dora Matthews House, as well as in the community.

Sixteen Community Cafe also received an award for providing meals for vulnerable residents, while The Mount of Olives Church was honoured for hosting a range of activities online.

Tina Coleman was given an award for providing information for isolated residents through her media platform Forest Hub, and Owen Adams was recognised for setting up and managing the Forest of Dean Covid Mutual Aid group on Facebook.

Also honoured with certificates were Ali Williams, Alizia Brazier, Angela Lewis, Gregg Waugh, Jamie John, Lorna Fisher, Debbie Sturgess, Sian Fletcher, Steve Parry and David Burgess.

The annual awards, which are decided by a community panel, are facilitated for the Coleford community by the members of the town council.