Some of Brecon’s most dedicated individuals and groups were recognised last night at a special ceremony in the Adelina Patti Theatre.

The Best of Brecon Awards 2025, hosted by the Mayor of Brecon, Cllr Marie Matthews, alongside Cllrs John Powell and Sian Drinan, brought together local people to celebrate those who make a real difference to the town.

“The Best of Brecon Awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the individuals, groups and businesses who go above and beyond to make a difference,” said Cllr Matthews.

“To all the nominees and winners: thank you. Your passion, generosity and commitment helps inspire us all. Brecon is better because of you.”

Entertainment during the evening was provided by Ghost Light, Westenders, and Brecon Little Theatre.

Lyn Cadwallader, CEO of One Voice Wales, was a guest speaker and spoke about the vital role of volunteers and his personal links to the town.

The winners

Trustee of the Year - Cerian Martin

Cerian Martin receives the Trustee of the Year award from Cllr Sian Drinan
Cerian Martin receives the Trustee of the Year award from Cllr Sian Drinan (B&R)

Cerian has been a dedicated trustee of the Brecon Volunteer Bureau since 2015 and has served as treasurer, helping to guide the charity through difficult times. She is stepping down this year and was praised for her steady leadership and commitment.

Voluntary Group of Team of the Year – Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR)

Cllr Marie Matthews presents the Voluntary Group of Team of the Year award to representatives of Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR)
Cllr Marie Matthews presents the Voluntary Group of Team of the Year award to representatives of Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR) (B&R)

Founded in 2015, HBTSR brings communities together through its welcome days, advocacy work and practical support for people seeking sanctuary. The group’s work with local schools and Ukrainian families was highlighted.

Community Business Award - Ruth Gibbs

Cllr John Powell presents the Community Business Award to Ruth Gibbs
Cllr John Powell presents the Community Business Award to Ruth Gibbs (B&R)

Ruth was recognised for her work at The Muse and her involvement in the Brecon Frazz Parade. Described as a resilient force for the arts, she was praised for creating opportunities and providing a creative hub that champions Welsh language and culture.

Young Volunteer – George Southgate (Rockdown George)

Cllr Marie Matthews presents the Young Volunteer Award to George Southgate
Cllr Marie Matthews presents the Young Volunteer Award to George Southgate (B&R)

Teenage musician George Southgate, known locally for his busking and charity work, has raised over £10,000 for good causes. He also performed with Pontfaen YFC in the Brecknock YFC Drama Festival.

Making a Positive Environmental Difference Award – Volunteers of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

Wardens and all volunteers from Bannau Brycheiniog National Park received the Making a Positive Environmental Difference Award
Wardens and all volunteers from Bannau Brycheiniog National Park received the Making a Positive Environmental Difference Award (B&R)

The volunteer wardens and helpers were celebrated for their work maintaining footpaths, educating visitors, and helping to protect the landscape and biodiversity of the national park.

Volunteer of the Year – Taniya Morris MBE

Clive Morris accepts the Volunteer of the Year Award from Cllr Sian Drinan on behalf of his wife, Taniya Morris MBE
Clive Morris accepts the Volunteer of the Year Award from Cllr Sian Drinan on behalf of his wife, Taniya Morris MBE (B&R)

Taniya was honoured for her 2,600km solo cycle from the UK to Ukraine to raise money for Voices of Children, a charity supporting families affected by war. Her award was collected on her behalf by her husband, Clive.

Personal Achievement Award – Katy Sinnadurai BEM

Katy Sinnadurai BEM receives the Personal Achievement Award from Cllr John Powell
Katy Sinnadurai BEM receives the Personal Achievement Award from Cllr John Powell (B&R)

Katy has given more than 1,000 hours each year to producing Brecon Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker at Theatr Brycheiniog, working with professional artists and hundreds of local people. She was praised for her tireless fundraising and creative leadership.

Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution – David Jones

David Jones’s Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution is accepted on his behalf by Vicki Denney and Martha Powell
David Jones’s Mayor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution is accepted on his behalf by Vicki Denney and Martha Powell (B&R)

Musical director David Jones was recognised for more than 50 years of service with Brecon Town Concert Band. He has helped generations of local musicians and led the band on tours across Europe, all while arranging concerts, sourcing music, and supporting the wider community. As David was unable to attend, the award was collected on his behalf by Vicki Denney and Martha Powell.

Judges’ Commendation Awards

Recipients of the Judges’ Commendation Awards gathered for a group photo
Recipients of the Judges’ Commendation Awards gathered for a group photo. Iris James was unable to attend (B&R)

Judges’ Commendation Awards were also presented to Roger Cannon and Lynne Gornall for their long-standing dedication to Brecon Jazz; Brian and Lorna Keylock for their exceptional fundraising efforts for Cancer Research Wales; Sam Sloan for his contribution to Brecon Bowling Club; Elizabeth Jeffreys for her work with Brecon Story and her promotion of culture in the town; Caroline Frampton for her commitment and support to Pontfaen YFC; and Iris James for her tireless knitting of items for premature and sick babies.