Young fundraiser inspired by grandad among Unsung Heroes celebrated by Cotswold District Council

Rhys Stephens, from South Cerney, laced up his running shoes and completed a mile every day in January despite not thinking of himself as a “natural runner”, raising more than £1,500 for the charity.  

Rhys completed the fundraising campaign while juggling his school and sports commitments – but despite this, he is already planning his next challenge.  

Rhys’ mum, Cat Stephens, said: “We’re just so proud of Rhys. He’s not somebody that enjoys running, so to persevere through January was a huge achievement. He’s really made the whole family proud and done something amazing for his grandad.” 

Other winners of the award included two founders of an arts charity for young people, a long-term volunteer with a local sports and social club, and a dedicated protector of the River Coln.  

The Unsung Hero Awards were launched by the Council in 2024 to recognise people who make an outstanding difference in their communities without seeking recognition. The latest winners were celebrated at a special ceremony ahead of a full meeting of the Council in Cirencester. 

Youth charity champions 

Also recognised last night were Keyna Doran and Vanessa Rigg, founders of Campden Edge Youth Arts Charity, which gives disadvantaged young people access to creative opportunities they might otherwise miss. 

The charity provides musical instruments and lessons, supports young people in activities including ballet, drama, painting, writing and singing, and organises visits to professional performances. Many of the young people they have supported have gone on to further study and careers in the arts. 

Protecting the River Coln 

In the meantime, Margaret Wright, was honoured for her work protecting the River Coln, inspiring volunteers, and strengthening environmental conservation across Gloucestershire. 

Margaret established and coordinates the River Coln Guardians, a volunteer network monitoring the river along its 33-mile course from Brockhampton to Lechlade. She has recruited and trained volunteers, secured funding, coordinated regular water quality and biodiversity monitoring, and helped build an evidence base to support the river's future management. 

Alongside this work, Margaret has organised community events and educational activities, inspiring residents and schoolchildren to learn more about protecting their local environment.  

Sports and social club commitment 

Finally, Marie Liptrot was honoured for her commitment to Blockley Sports and Social Club, where she has been a member for 53 years and served on the committee for 49 years. 

Marie’s achievements over the years include: helping to secure the land and develop the sports facilities that continue to benefit the community today; helping to expand the club to include new sports and junior teams; and taking on key leadership roles, including Chair of the charity. She has also supported wider community events, including Blockley Fair - helping other local groups raise vital funds. 

Praise from the Council Chair 

Chair of the Council, Cllr Mark Harris, who presented the awards, praised all of this month's winners. 

He said: "Every one of our Unsung Heroes has shown what can be achieved through kindness, determination and a genuine commitment to helping others. 

"From Rhys' inspiring fundraising challenge at such a young age, to decades of volunteering, from creating opportunities for young people to thrive through the arts, to protecting one of our most treasured natural environments - these winners represent the very best of our communities. 

"And although they might not seek recognition for what they do, their contributions have made a lasting difference to the lives of others, and it is a privilege to celebrate everything they have achieved." 

If you know someone who goes above and beyond to support their local community, nominations for the next round of the Unsung Hero Awards are now open. 

More information about the Unsung Hero Awards can be found on the Cotswold District Council website.