A NUMBER of local people were among 11 inspirational individuals who have been awarded a St Boniface Award in a special service at Exeter Cathedral.

Ann Jerman of Crediton and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2796
Anne Jerman of Crediton and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2796 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The Company of St Boniface was introduced by the Bishop of Exeter to honour people who have made a substantial contribution to the life of their church, local community or Church of England school.

Anne Jerman, a dedicated member of Holy Cross, Crediton, has served the parish church in various roles for more than 35 years, including Churchwarden, PCC Secretary, and Deanery Synod Secretary.

Robert Vere from Morchard Bishop and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2789
Robert Vere from Morchard Bishop and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2789 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Becky Britton of Tiverton and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2791
Becky Britton of Tiverton and the Bishop of Exeter, Rt Rev Dr Michael Harrison. AQ 2791 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

She established the Great Churchyard Giveaway, which provides refreshments for pupils and parents of Hayward’s School at the end of each half-term and full-term, leading to increased engagement with pupils and parents.

Anne is said to offer steadfast leadership, wisdom and support, particularly during times of vacancy, serving with energy, joy and determination.

Ann Jerman and Robert Vere with the Bishops of Exeter and Crediton with Rev Jeremy Putnam, left and Rev Matthew Tregenza, right. AQ 2805
Anne Jerman and Robert Vere with the Bishops of Exeter and Crediton with Rev Jeremy Putnam, left and Rev Matthew Tregenza, right. AQ 2805 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
Ann Jerman’s St Boniface Award. AQ 2798
Anne Jerman’s St Boniface Award. AQ 2798 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Robert Vere, a devoted lay reader in Morchard Bishop, has served for 40+ years, drawing on early missionary experience.

Becky Britton, churchwarden at St George and St Paul, Tiverton, saved a man’s life during a service, administering CPR and use of a defibrillator.

Award recipient Peter Smith of Silverton with the Bishops of Crediton and Exeter. AQ 2814
Award recipient Peter Smith of Silverton with the Bishops of Crediton and Exeter. AQ 2814 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)
One of the award recipients with his family and the Bishop of Exeter. AQ 2813
One of the award recipients with his family and the Bishop of Exeter. AQ 2813 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

The Rt Rev Dr Mike Harrison, the Bishop of Exeter, presented medals to each of the recipients who were welcomed into The Company of St Boniface.

Exeter Cathedral. AQ 2773
Exeter Cathedral. AQ 2773 (Alan Quick, Crediton Courier)

Other recipients included Anne Byrne from St Michael and All Angels Church in Heavitree, Exeter; Nathan Hill, a dedicated evangelist at Exeter Network Church; Penelope Hunt, a devoted member of Exeter Cathedral worshipping community who regularly sends cards to those unwell or bereaved; Alison Pinnock, from St Mary’s Church, Croyde; Rachel Carr from St Mary’s Church, Kentisbeare; Peter Smith, churchwarden at St Mary the Virgin, Silverton, who has led a project preserving a significant part of the church’s heritage; Professor Claire Taylor, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Plymouth Marjon University; Nicholas White, a dedicated youth leader in Exmouth.