Barry's best pick up their prizes (From Barry And District News)

Barry's best pick up their prizes

BARRY'S long-time community champions have been honoured at our annual glittering Citizen of the Year ceremony.

At a packed Memorial Hall last Thursday night, our best-loved residents gathered to hear the results of this year's competition.

The event, run by the News, Barry Industrial Complex and the town council, in conjunction with Dan Evans and Morrisons, searched for special individuals who go that little bit extra for others without any thought of reward.

Twenty-three nominations were received and, after much deliberation, judges News assistant editor Sue Vincent-Jones, Dow Corning's Jonathan Coldman and Barry mayor Cllr Jane Andrews picked the three winners, with a special mention for two others.

Gibbonsdown Residents Board chair Molly Conway won first prize, winning a week-long trip to San Francisco.

Tireless Central Park campaigner Dilys Colbourne came second. She will enjoy a two-day break in Barcelona.

In third place came popular swimming coach Barrie Dawe. He picked up a state-of-the-art LCD colour television.

Special prizes of £25 in Woolworth's vouchers were given to youngsters Christopher Finn and David Lalande. Both boys work tirelessly for charity despite having disabilities themselves.

All the nominees received a certificate and the winner's nominator Acting Inspector Mark Hobrough received a hamper. The kind-hearted copper immediately donated this to Ty Dyfan Residential Home.

News assistant editor Sue Vincent-Jones said: "The Barry & District News, Barry Industrial Complex and Barry Town Council would like to thank all those who nominated citizens. Thanks also to our sponsors, including Dan Evans and Morrisons.

"And to Barry Town Council for hosting the event on Thursday night and providing such a wonderful buffet."