Last Friday, Bay Church in Paignton was absolutely buzzing as the Torbay Community Champion Awards returned for their second year and wow, what a day it was. Big feelings, big applause, and an even bigger reminder of just how special our local community really is.
We were proud to be there celebrating alongside so many incredible people who quietly go above and beyond to make Torbay a better, kinder, stronger place to live. These awards are all about shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes, the people who don’t do what they do for recognition, but absolutely deserve it.
One of the highlights for us was seeing young people front and centre, being recognised for the impact they’re already having. The Young Volunteer of the Year Award, sponsored by South Devon College, was a real showstopper with all 4 nominees winning!
Daisy Coote, just eight years old and already raising an incredible £1,700 to help feed children before Christmas, Peter-Criss Brian Healy, who turned personal loss into something truly positive by raising over £2,400 for Rowcroft. Macey Gardiner, juggling four evenings a week volunteering with Sea Scouts to teach life skills, and Yazmin Stanley, whose warmth and kindness at the Ellacombe Community Café and Help Hub makes everyone feel welcome. A group of young people who are nothing short of inspiring.
Adding even more energy to the evening, one of our brilliant partner organisation The Music Factory brought young performers along who absolutely lit up the room. Their performances ran throughout the awards and were a perfect reminder of why creative spaces for young people matter so much – confidence, joy, and talent on full display. We loved seeing them take the stage and own it.
And then…
Our partner, friend, and all-round community powerhouse Tanny Stobart somehow managed to make an already emotional night even more special. First, she was awarded a Lifetime Award, recognising 25 years of dedication to children and young people, and her role as the driving force behind Play Torbay – putting joy, fun, and hope into the lives of countless families.
Minutes later, she was back up on stage again, this time being crowned Torbay Community Champion of the Year, presented by last year’s winner, Norms McNamara of the Purple Angel Dementia Charity. A double win and a standing ovation! Well done Tanny!
We left feeling proud, inspired, and very grateful to be part of such an extraordinary community. If last Friday proved anything, it’s that Torbay is full of champions—of all ages—and the future is in very good hands. 💫
Here’s to the volunteers, the young legends, the music-makers, and the people who make our communities shine every single day.