Unsung Community Heroes Honoured in Second Round of Awards
The spirit of community and selfless dedication was celebrated at the second round of the Unsung Heroes Awards, which recognises exceptional individuals who have gone above and beyond for their communities.
Announced at Full Council this week, November’s Unsung Heroes celebrate individuals whose dedication has greatly enriched their communities.
One of the winners, Christopher Davies, has spent over 40 years enhancing life in Poulton, from leading the Parish Council to creating a thriving youth football hub. Revitalising Tetbury Youth Club, Suzie Drye provides vital opportunities for young people and is now strengthening broader community ties through her work with the Friendship Café.
In Great Rissington, Richard and Kate Cleverly transformed a village club into a lively hub of activity, while Gemina Plater supports this effort by managing a club bar and keeping residents connected through a village magazine.
All these inspiring individuals have gone above and beyond to bring their communities together.
Cllr Nikki Ind, chair of the council, said, "We are incredibly grateful to everyone who submitted nominations for the second round of our Unsung Heroes Awards. The stories shared were a powerful reminder of the extraordinary contributions being made across our communities, and narrowing down the winners was no easy task.
“A huge congratulations to Christopher, Suzie, Gemina, Richard, and Kate for being recognised as this round’s honorees! Your dedication, compassion, and tireless efforts have made a profound impact on so many lives, and we thank you for your remarkable contributions.
“As we look ahead to the next round of nominations, I encourage everyone to think about the unsung heroes in their lives. Whether it's a volunteer, a community leader, or someone making a quiet difference, let’s celebrate their efforts and ensure they get the recognition they deserve."
The Unsung Heroes Awards will return for a third-round next year, continuing to spotlight the extraordinary individuals who enrich the Cotswolds with their passion and dedication.
For more information about the awards and to nominate a local hero, please click here.
The next round of winners will be announced at the Full Council meeting on 22 January, where the Chair of the Council will present their awards.
Contact Information
Cotswold District Council Communications Team
Notes to editors
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Photographed:
Left to right: Suzie Drye, Gemina Plater, Cllr Nikki Ind, Cllr Mark Harris, Richard Cleverly and Christopher Davies
Meet November’s Unsung Heroes:
- Christopher Davies
Christopher’s nomination highlights his commitment to improving life in Poulton – spending over 40 years doing so! Serving on the Parish Council for over two decades, including two terms as Chair, Christopher has tirelessly worked to enhance village life. He organised the Poulton summer fete for many years and played a key role in the development of Fairford Youth Football Club, leading efforts to secure land, build facilities, and create a thriving sports hub for over 200 children. Beyond Poulton, Chris has mentored with The Prince’s Trust for over a decade, served as a governor of Ampney Crucis Primary School, and was an active member of the Farringdon Round Table. Chris exemplifies community dedication and is a true Unsung Hero.
- Suzie Drye
According to her nomination, Suzie Drye’s leadership has transformed Tetbury Youth Club into a vital resource for over 100 young people. Through her relentless pursuit of grant funding and event organization, Suzie has strengthened youth opportunities in the town. Her new venture, overseeing the Town Council’s Friendship Café, promises to build even stronger community connections - Suzie is not only committed to youth but also the broader community.
- Richard and Kate Cleverly
Richard and Kate Cleverly have been nominated for making the Great Rissington Club a hub of community life. Through their leadership, the club hosts diverse events, from sports activities to the highly successful Rissifest. Their tireless work has created a thriving space for social and cultural connections, fostering an exceptional sense of community spirit in the village.
- Gemina Plater
Also representing Great Rissington Club, Gemina’s nomination describes her as a major asset to the village! As coordinator of the Great Rissington News magazine, she keeps residents informed about local events and initiatives, including promoting village safety. Her management of the local club bar has further strengthened community ties. Balancing these roles with her family and business, Gemina’s cheerful dedication greatly enriches her village.