THE unsung heroes of Taunton Deane, including several from Wellington, have been celebrated at a Citizenship Awards ceremony.

The awards, which Taunton Deane Borough Council hosted with local Rotary Clubs, were open to individuals and voluntary groups who make a difference to people in the community.

Among the winners to receive an award at Somerset County Cricket Club in Taunton were the Friends of Wellington Park, established in 2001 to support the park, promote its use and preserve its historical heritage.

The group organises the annual May Day Event, and organises and presents 12 weeks of musical entertainment every Sunday afternoon in the park from June until the end of August, including Proms in the Park in aid of Wellington Silver Band.

The group liaises with TDBC Park Department to point out any problems and with its close support Wellington Park has consistently won Green Flag and Heritage Awards.

The group received a glass trophy, certificate and £100 to be awarded to a charity of its choice, which went to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

Mike Newberry, of Rockwell Green, who has served as a street pastor since 2008, also won an award.

Everyone who received a nomination was invited to attend the award ceremony and collect a certificate. Among those from the Wellington area were:

David Derrick: Nominated for his contribution to sport in Wellington including cricket, football, skittles and the Sports Federation.

Dave Rylatt: Nominated for his active participation in the community – Majorettes, Wellington Carnival, Wellington Street Fair – he has also organised a number of abseils to raise money for good causes.

Denis Cottle: Running West Buckland Friendship Group, increasing membership and organising events, outings and entertainment.

Jenifer Vickery: Chairs Wellington Basins volunteer group, treasurer Wellington Townswomen’s Guild, member Wellington in Bloom, Wellington Museum Society and helps with planting at Lancer Court.

Sue Thompson: Intrinsic part of the team at Wellington-based Reminiscence Learning, helps at activity days, memory cafe and forest school sessions; organised a dementia awareness trail around Wellington and supports fundraising events.