The Heritage Heroes awards were launched in the South West Region in 2005 to celebrate the important and vital role volunteers play in delivering successful heritage projects. We wanted to say a big thank you to these special people, whose enormous efforts and hard work have brought about huge benefits for the heritage of the UK.
The 18 finalists attended a special awards ceremony, which was held at Powderham Castle on 30th March. There were six categories of awards reflecting the broad and diverse range of assets and activities which make up our heritage.
Wildlife & Natural Heritage
Winner: Access all Areas – Holton Lee
Customs/Traditions/Crafts
Winner: Celebrating the Diverse Cultural Heritage in South Gloucestershire
Young people
Winner: Carving History at the Wilderness
Buildings and Monuments
Winner: Paignton Preservation and Local History Society
Museums/Archives/Libraries
Winner: Brixham Battery Heritage Group
Memories
Winner: Softwing Project
All of the finalists were real Heritage Heroes, achieving great benefits for their communities and the heritage. The feedback they gave us on their experiences told a wonderful story of challenges faced and overcome, new skills acquired, and new friends made. The independent panel of judges had an extremely difficult time in deciding the winner in each category!
There are many volunteers across the South West, who are working hard to look after their heritage, and contributing enormously to the quality of life of their communities. Heritage is something which is greatly valued by many people, whether it be a local park or building, local traditions, collections or cherished green spaces.
By giving up their precious and valuable time, and investing so much energy and commitment, volunteers clearly demonstrate how much their heritage is treasured. We would like to thank all volunteers who have delivered many varied and successful projects across the region, and without whom so many projects would not have been done.