Devon Sports Awards Winners Revealed

Another year of sporting excellence in Devon was celebrated in all its glory at a glittering awards ceremony held in Exeter.

Bringing together the cream of Devon's sporting talent under one roof, the Devon Sports Awards - run in partnership with the Exeter Chiefs Foundation, Active Devon and Exeter College - once again acknowledged the outstanding contribution of coaches, clubs, volunteers and sportsmen and women from across the county.

Underlining the work that goes on - not just at the very top end of sport in Devon, but also at grassroots level as well, the evening was heralded a great success with every award nominee being highlighted for their efforts over the past 12 months.

Hosted by BBC Spotlight presenter Jenny Walrond, the evening also included an inspiring talk by Kate Salmon, who was one of the four women who completed the 3,000 mile row across the Atlantic in aid of Row For The Ocean, as well as a special Q&A session with Exeter Chiefs Director of Rugby, Rob Baxter.

Exeter Chiefs Foundation deputy chairman Keiron Northcott said: "It has been so encouraging to see the various achievements across Devon and I hope the recognition and appreciation of the many individuals and clubs will play a part in inspiring others to participate in local sport and strive to be the best they possibly can in order to further the accomplishment and reputation of the county as a whole.

"I would like to personally thank all of the nominees and nominators who helped to make the awards such a success. I hope it is the first of many collaborations."

Active Devon Chief Executive Matt Evans said: "We are very proud of the Devon Sports Awards, which we started 22 years ago and now have the help of the Exeter Chiefs Foundation and Exeter College. They continue to provide a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the tireless hard work and dedication of coaches, officials, volunteers and clubs that make sport happen across our wonderful county as well as the fantastic achievements of our teams and individual athletes, both in community and elite sport."

John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive of Exeter College, added: "Exeter College is focused on delivering exceptional teaching, learning and training. As part of this vision, we are truly committed to supporting programmes that bring together high-quality education and sporting excellence.

"We are also committed to supporting the Sport England local delivery pilot and have a track record of investing in the future of sport over the long term."

AWARD WINNERS

Devon Young Coach of the Year, sponsored by Exeter College: Cody Levell, Totnes & Dartington Disability Football

Devon Coach of the Year, sponsored by swcomms: James Lake, Tavistock Swimming Club

Devon Young Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Exeter College: Beth Groves, St Budeaux Tennis Club

Devon Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by BBC Radio Devon: Rex Meredith, Castle Inn Rowers

Workplace Activity Champion, sponsored by Girling Jones: Charlotte Gill, Livewell Southwest

Performances in Community Sport, sponsored by Lympstone Manor:
Ashmoor Hockey Club

Bryony Frost

Dawlish Ladies Football Club U18s

City of Plymouth Trampoline & Gymnastics Club

Tilly Robinson, Westcountry Hawks

Contribution to Inclusive Sport, sponsored by Active Devon: Living Options - Deaf Get Active and Volunteer

Business Contribution to Sport in the Community, sponsored by Lloyd Barnes: Exeter City Community Trust

Business Contribution to Staff Wellbeing Through Sporting Activity, sponsored by Midas Group: Axminster Tool and Machinery

Devon Club of the Year, sponsored by swcomms: Axe Vale Netball Club

Outstanding Contribution to Sport in Devon, sponsored by Exeter Chiefs Foundation: Cody Levell - Totnes & Dartington Disability Football