Seven exceptional individuals have been recognised for their contributions to their communities at the latest Silver and Gold Kite Awards ceremony.

At a presentation held on Friday 20 March at the Castle Hotel, Brecon, the Chair of Powys County Council, Cllr William Powell, awarded Silver Kite and Gold Kite honours to volunteers, public servants, cultural leaders, charity fundraisers and long‑serving carers who have each made an exceptional contribution to life in Powys.

The awards are civic honours presented to people and organisations in Powys who have gone above and beyond in their community or achieved something exceptional in their field.

Nominations are submitted throughout the year by councillors and awarded at the discretion of the Chair.

The latest recipients recognised are:

  • Andrew Bufton (Posthumous Gold Kite Award) – honoured posthumously for his lifelong service to Brecknockshire YFC, supporting rallies, competitions and drama festivals for decades. His family collected the award in recognition of his exceptional dedication.
  • Bryan Davies and Katrina Davies – for more than 60 years of combined service at Talgarth Fire Station, inspiring new recruits, supporting Black Mountains communities and contributing tirelessly to local events and fundraising.
  • Brenda Claridge – for her remarkable charity fundraising and mental‑health advocacy, raising more than £21,000 for MIND, the DPJ Foundation and many local causes through inclusive community events.
  • Ydwena Jones – for her lifelong contribution to the Welsh language, culture and heritage, her work with Papur Bro Y Fan a’r Lle, and her dedication to preserving the memory of the Mynydd Epynt clearances.
  • Nigel Devlin and Caroline Frampton – for more than 25 years of exceptional fostering, providing safe, caring homes to more than 70 children and continuing to support many into adulthood.

“It is a privilege to recognise the extraordinary dedication shown by each of this year’s recipients,” said Cllr Powell. My warmest congratulations and heartfelt thanks to them all.”