Citizens we can be proud of (From Barry And District News)

Citizens we can be proud of

BARRY'S most dedicated and caring residents have been rewarded at the brand-new Citizen of the Year Award Ceremony.

Organisers the Barry and District News, Dow Corning and Barry Town Council held a party on Thursday night to announce the winners of this prestigious competition.

In first place, Jeff Savory, 52, of Court Road was awarded a DVD player donated by Dan Evans, £250 and a meal for two at the Casa Paco for his work with disabled youngsters.

Amy Hill, 17, of Oban Street, took second place and was given £150 for her commitment to the Amelia Trust Farm.

And for her loyalty to charity, Jen Davies of Station Street was given £100 and third place. The competition, initially called the Barry Community Hero Award, is run every year to find unsung heroes in the Vale. This year's response was fantastic.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Margaret Wilkinson told the News: "It's great to hold this event, not only to name the winners but to say a big thank you to all nominees and their nominators."

These sentiments were echoed by organisers Barry And District News editor Sue Vincent-Jones, Dow Corning's human resources manager Lyn Evans and by other sponsors Ian McHardie-Jones of Dan Evans and Safeway manager Steve Barrett.

The winners also enjoyed the night.

Jeff Savory said: "I had no idea my colleague Gwynedd Linguard had been planning this. The first I knew was when I had a letter inviting me here."

For over 20 years, Jeff has helped young people with learning difficulties. Heavily involved in the Special Olympics Great Britain squad, Jeff is off to Dublin in 2003.

He added: "Gwyneth and I run a special gymnastics club. Next year, of the 20 gym team members from around Great Britain, three of them are from the Vale. This money will help pay my travel costs."

Always plugging the club, Jeff said: "We are still looking for sponsors to help us get to Dublin. If anyone thinks they can help with the funds, please call me on 07803 165581."

Other nominees were Anne Bird, Brian Dale, Frances Davies, Lucy Dickenson, Sister Gertrude, Susan James, David Lalande, Joyce Lalande, Emily May Bartlett, Ken Farmer, Age Concern (Barry), Stan Smith, Valerie Provis, Andrew Hinton, Rita Limbrick, Morfydd 'Molly' Conway and Lewis Coffey.

See next week's News for a Citizen of the Year Special.