Inspiring Local Group / Club – Individual
Meiriona Davies
Meiriona supports unpaid young and adult carers in Ystradgynlais, leading a weekly group for carers. She is a voice for unpaid carers on Powys Regional Partnership Board and the Age Well Board.
Her nominator said: ‘She has care running through her like a stick of rock. She is a legend.’
Award presented by Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards sponsor Warma UK
Inspiring Local Group / Club – Group category
The Big Friendly Group (BFG)
The Big Friendly Group is an addiction recovery, mental health and veterans group that provides a seven-day-a-week drop-in centre working in partnership with Llanfaes Church. They also maintain the church and churchyard and organise workshops.
Their nominator said: “The community spirit within the group is spilling out into the rest of the community.”
Award presented by Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards sponsor Warma UK
Enriching Lives through Arts and Culture - Individual
Stella Gratix
Stella conducts three choirs, organises an annual arts & crafts fair in Llanidloes, as well as supporting her local twinning association, gardening club, history club and Lluest Horse & Pony Club. Stella says ‘My greatest joy is helping others’.
Her nominator said: “She makes a huge difference to the local community.”
Award presented by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Tia Jones
Enriching Lives through Arts and Culture - Group
The Quilt Association
The Quilt Association volunteers based at the Minerva Arts Centre in Llanidloes are responsible for the day to day running of the charity and building, along with organising exhibits of quilt work from around the world.
Their nominator said ‘ They are an exceptional group of women.’
Award presented by His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Tia Jones
Excellent Committee Member / Trustee
Cerian Martin
Cerian has been a Trustee for Brecon Volunteer Bureau since 2015 and is currently Treasurer, bringing her organisational skills and common sense approach to the role.
Her nominator stated: “Without her the organisation would not have survived the last few years.”
Award presented by PAVO CEO Clair Swales
Exceptional Young Person / People
Lowri Bayliss
Year 12 A-level student Lowri is a volunteer rugby coach for Builth Wells RFC and has inspired many girls to be active in the sport. She wants to encourage sport for all, no matter their size, age, gender or physical ability.
Her nominator said: “She shows me what the future of sport, health and physical activity can look like for Powys and Wales.”
Award presented by Jamie Burt, PAVO Chair of Trustees
Excellence in Health and Wellbeing – Individual
Angharad Davies
Angharad is a volunteer breastfeeding peer mentor and lead facilitator of the weekly Llandrindod Bibs Groups which supports new parents with their breastfeeding journey.
Her nominator said: “Angharad is a constant silent support. I don’t think she really understands how valued her work is.”
Award presented by Jamie Burt, PAVO Chair of Trustees
Excellence in Health and Wellbeing – Group
The Arches Community Transport Drivers
Based at The Arches Community Support Support in Rhayader, the community transport drivers provide community transport via Dial a Ride and the community car scheme. Including early morning pickups for regular dialysis runs to hospitals.
Their nominator said: “They are the best. They keep the community on the move.”
Award presented by Jamie Burt, PAVO Chair of Trustees
Outstanding Contribution and recipient of the High Sheriff certificate of recognition
South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team
The South and Mid Wales Cave Rescue Team work tirelessly throughout the year helping people - and animals - trapped underground. The group - currently comprising 145 volunteers - have been saving lives for over 70 years.
Their nominator said: “They are a humble group, not seeking attention, not shouting about what they do, yet when called to action they react with the utmost dedication and commitment to help others in need.”
Award presented by the High Sheriff of Powys, Lady Kathryn Silk
Photo credit: Lewis Chatfield
