THREE Kirtonians were presented with surprise awards by the Mayor of Crediton, Cllr Frank Letch, at Crediton Town Council's End of Term reception, held in the Boniface Centre.

The three who each received an inscribed Crediton Plate, "Citizens of the Year" were husband and wife, Gerald and Laura Conyngham and John Gooding.

The Mayor told his audience of councillors, guests and representatives from many groups and organisations that Gerald and Laura are active Quakers who involve themselves practically and energetically in a host of activities to do with the community and environment.

Cllr Letch said: "Gerald is a specialist in child care and a trained mediator.

"He chairs Sustainable Crediton and not long ago spent several months as a Peace Worker on the West Bank with the Palestinians.

"He openly campaigns for clean air in the town. Somehow he finds time to fit in the occasional thespian exploit with the Arts Centre.

"Laura pioneered FairTrade in Crediton and can always be found running the FairTrade stall at the Farmers' Market.

"She sponsored the visits of co-operative tea growers and olive farmers in the third world."

He said Laura is also a mentor with Upstream and an accomplished musician.

He added: "Gerald and Laura always campaign practically, running stalls and workshops promoting sustainable lifestyles.

"Recently, as part of their campaign to promote action on climate change in the process raising almost £3,000 for Christian Aid, they both cycled from Crediton to Copenhagen (140 miles) to lobby the Climate Change Conference."

The other award recipient was John Gooding, who was described as a "real Kirton boy", having been born in Crediton nearly 76 years ago.

Mr Letch said that John voluntarily looks after the play area at Barnfield Close, also litter picking in that area.

He recalled when John dressed as Santa and could be seen in what was thenCrediton's Somerfield store and also wearing the same red coat to visit St Lawrence Home.

He said John would arrange coach day trips, take friends and neighbours to the doctor and the hospital for appointments.

He said John was also a Lay Preacher with the Crediton Evangelical Church.

The Mayor also presented donations to representatives of many Crediton groups on behalf of the Town Council.

Cllr Letch said it had not been the best year for the council but said he was pleased that councillors had worked "together" more and there had not been so much "politicising".

He thanked his deputy, Cllr Joyce Harris for her work and also the work of the town clerk, Martin Maggs and his assistant, Martin Ashley.

He said Crediton was a "wonderful community" adding that he was pleased to have come into contact with many groups.

He thanked the group representatives present for their attendance and added: "When I came to Crediton I knew it was a special town, a caring town.

"I hope you are as proud of our town as I am."

Alan Quick