Seventeen individuals and three organisations have been celebrated for their outstanding contribution to local life at this year’s Silver Kite Awards.

The ceremony, held last month in the Council Chamber at County Hall in Llandrindod Wells, saw the Chair of Powys County Council, Cllr William Powell, present awards to volunteers, youth leaders, charity workers, event organisers and long‑serving carers. Each recipient was recognised for going above and beyond in supporting their communities across the county.

The Silver Kite Awards are civic honours recognising exceptional service or achievement in Powys. Nominations are submitted throughout the year by councillors, with the final awards made at the discretion of the Council Chair.

“It is a profound honour to recognise these extraordinary individuals and groups,” said Cllr Powell, praising this year’s winners.

“Each embodies the very best of Powys through their kindness, dedication and service. Their actions strengthen our communities, enrich people’s lives and reflect the true spirit of the Silver Kite Award. My heartfelt congratulations and thanks to every recipient.”

The following individuals and organisations were honoured:

• Andrew Powell - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Chloe Masefield. Andrew Powell is the organiser behind two of Powys’ most successful community events: the Brecon Beacons Food Festival and the Crickhowell Summer Weekend. Both are free, vibrant celebrations that showcase local businesses, attract visitors and create a strong sense of community pride. His events bring people together, increase footfall for local traders and enhance Powys’ reputation as a welcoming, lively destination. Andrew’s dedication, creativity and leadership have helped these events become annual highlights for residents and visitors alike. His award recognises his significant contribution to promoting local produce, supporting independent businesses and enhancing community life across the county.

• Hay Youth Club - who were nominated for the award by Cllr Gareth Ratcliffe. Hay Youth Club is a fully volunteer‑run organisation that has grown rapidly over four years, now supporting more than 120 young people each week. Its volunteers provide a safe, welcoming and inspiring space, with more than 45 regular attendees each Tuesday evening. The club is free to access thanks to ongoing fundraising and support from Hay Town Council. As well as offering weekly food and activities, it organises trips including go‑karting, bowling, roller discos and an annual Christmas disco. The award recognises the exceptional dedication of its ten volunteers, whose efforts ensure young people can socialise, develop and thrive.

• David Vaughan - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Deb Edwards. David Vaughan has dedicated decades to supporting the off‑road biking community in Mid Wales, serving on committees, organising major events and mentoring young riders. He played a central role in the Welsh 2 Day Enduro, one of the UK’s most prestigious events, and represented Wales internationally in the 1980s as manager of the Six Day Enduro team. David has also raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charities across the county through continuous fundraising. Widely respected for his modesty and tireless commitment, his award recognises his lasting influence on motorsport in Powys and his profound contributions to young riders and community life.

• Alan Crowe - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Richard Church. Alan Crowe has been the driving force behind the Welshpool 1940s Weekend for many years, transforming it into a major annual event that attracts visitors from across the UK. His voluntary commitment has enabled the event to grow significantly, supporting local businesses, celebrating an important period of history and strengthening community spirit. Each September, thousands travel to Welshpool to enjoy the festival atmosphere, bringing a welcome boost to the local economy. The award recognises Alan’s passion, leadership and sustained efforts to preserve heritage, promote the town and ensure the event continues to flourish year after year.

• Cathy Warlow - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Gareth E. Jones, Cllr Jeremy Pugh and Cllr Bryan Davies. For more than 30 years, Cathy Warlow has provided outstanding leadership to Builth Wells Community Support, guiding the charity from its creation to its 30th anniversary. Her dedication, compassion and vision have shaped the organisation into a vital lifeline for local residents, providing practical and emotional support across the community. The recent anniversary celebration highlighted how pivotal Cathy’s leadership has been in sustaining and strengthening the charity’s work over three decades. Her award acknowledges her exceptional commitment, long‑term service and profoundly positive impact on people’s lives in Builth Wells and the surrounding area.

• Mo Lloyd - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Gareth E. Jones. Mo Lloyd is a central figure in Painscastle community life, producing the bi‑monthly newsletter, organising the Painscastle Local Interest Group and leading talks and visits celebrating local heritage. Over the past year, she has coordinated well‑attended visits to local villages and hamlets, as well as a varied programme of talks covering local history, notable figures and significant regional events. Many talks are also streamed online, extending community reach. Mo additionally contributes to the management of Llandeilo Graban Hill. Her award recognises her energy, leadership and extensive work preserving community connection, heritage and engagement across the area.

• Barbara Anderson - who was nominated for the award by Cllr Susan McNicholas. Barbara Anderson has devoted many years to education and community life in Ystradgynlais. A retired Assistant Head of Maesydderwen School, she also served as Vice Chair of Governors at Ysgol Bro Tawe, providing committed and supportive leadership. Barbara’s deep involvement with St Cynog’s Church, where she has long served as Church Warden, includes managing the church hall and overseeing its upkeep. Her tireless dedication has ensured the hall continues to operate as a vital, well‑used community facility at a time when many others have closed. The award celebrates her remarkable service, commitment and longstanding contribution to the community.

• Liz Reynolds and Mike Hiles – who were nominated for the award by Cllr Ange Williams. Liz Reynolds and Mike Hiles are longstanding volunteers whose contributions have greatly strengthened the community of Knighton. Liz supports a wide range of local groups, helping with cleaning, cooking, fundraising, community centre activities and church work. She and her late husband Peter were integral to major community projects, including the creation of the community centre. Mike is best known as Knighton’s “Santa,” bringing joy to families every Christmas. He also supports the RAF club through committee work, fundraising and maintenance of the cenotaph, and volunteers as a driver. Their awards recognise their kindness, dedication and lasting impact on community life.

• Hamish Stonebridge – who was nominated for the award by Cllr Jake Berriman. For more than 40 years, Hamish Stonebridge has served the Royal British Legion in Llandrindod Wells in roles including Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Standard Bearer. As Branch Chairman for 15 years, he has been central to organising the annual Remembrance Service and strengthening the Legion’s presence in the community. Hamish also volunteers widely, including supporting St John Ambulance, Llandrindod Hospital and helping behind the bar at the local club. His award reflects unwavering commitment, reliability and selfless service that has made a significant and lasting difference to local life over several decades.

• Rachel Jones – who was nominated for the award by Cllr Danny Bebb. Rachel Jones has made a longstanding contribution to the community of Churchstoke through her dedicated work with the village playgroup and local school. She has supported early years provision, helped deliver activities that bring families together and strengthened connections across the community. Her efforts have enhanced children’s experiences, supported families and improved cohesion throughout the village. Rachel’s award recognises her sustained commitment to supporting children, fostering community involvement and enriching village life through consistent and caring service.

• Rhayader Carnival Committee – who were nominated for the award by Cllr Angela Davies. The Rhayader Carnival Committee is a small but highly dedicated group of volunteers known as “The Misfits,” who work all year to organise Rhayader’s nine‑day annual carnival. Secretary Katy Cronin accepted the award on behalf of the group. Their packed programme includes events for all ages – teddy bears’ picnics, quiz nights, sporting activities and the famous wheelbarrow race – culminating in Carnival Day. The 2025 carnival marked 121 years of tradition, drawing visitors, boosting the local economy and reinforcing Rhayader’s community pride. The award celebrates their tireless energy, fundraising and commitment to maintaining one of Powys’ most cherished events.

• Powys Animal Welfare – who were nominated for the award by Cllr Kelly Healy. Powys Animal Welfare is a long‑established charity that began as a cat rescue and has expanded to support both vulnerable animals and residents on low incomes. The charity offers practical help with essential costs, demonstrating compassion and commitment to improving wellbeing across the community. David Lewis and Maggie Roine accepted the award on behalf of the organisation. Although the charity has made a meaningful difference for many years, it has never sought recognition. The award acknowledges the organisation’s kindness, selflessness and enduring contribution to people and animals throughout Powys.

• The Reverend Canon Nia Wyn Morris – who was nominated for the award by Cllr Peter Lewington. Canon Nia Wyn Morris is a deeply respected community leader in Newtown, supporting residents of all backgrounds with compassion and dedication. She leads key civic and commemorative events, including Remembrance and Armistice services, and provides pastoral care through initiatives such as the Blue Service for bereaved families and the Wave of Light memorial. Nia also runs the Small Saints group, organises concerts for the Newtown Silver Band and leads an annual Candlelit Charity Carol Service. Her award reflects her wide‑ranging, meaningful contributions and the profound positive impact she has across Newtown.

• Leigh O’Connor – who was nominated for the award by Cllr Lucy Roberts. Leigh O’Connor has transformed her village hall from a deteriorating, financially struggling building into a thriving community hub. She has secured major grants for improvements including new windows, insulation, solar panels, heating upgrades, kitchen refurbishment and essential safety systems. Leigh has also introduced a diverse programme of community activities such as lunch clubs, coffee mornings, bingo, afternoon teas and upcoming performances. Her hands‑on leadership – including coordinating contractors and carrying out physical labour – has revitalised the hall, ensuring its long‑term sustainability. Her award recognises her determination, vision and exceptional service to the community.

• Mair and Roy Wilson – who were nominated for the award by Cllr Geoff Morgan. Mair and Roy Wilson have dedicated more than 30 years to fostering vulnerable children, providing stability, love and a sense of belonging to 18 young people aged 4 to 14. Many children had experienced trauma or additional needs, and the couple consistently went above and beyond to support them – teaching life skills, offering emotional stability and maintaining lifelong bonds. Mair has also been a strong advocate for children’s education and wellbeing. Their award recognises their extraordinary compassion, resilience and transformative impact on the lives of the children they have welcomed into their home.

• David Corfield. Retired farmer David Corfield has dedicated thousands of voluntary hours to improving Welshpool’s environment and supporting disabled people. His contributions include litter picking, repairing infrastructure, restoring benches, clearing footpaths and creating a community countryside site on his own land. He has organised major events including the Welshpool Festival of Transport and the Welshpool Country Music Festival, raising significant funds for local charities such as the Heulwen Trust, which provides free canal boat trips for disabled people. His award celebrates his kindness, hard work and exceptional, lifelong service to the community.

• Mo Hand and June Derrick. Mo Hand and June Derrick are long‑serving Shared Lives Carers who provide person‑centred support for adults who need help to live independently. They offer flexible arrangements – including long‑term placements, short stays and sessional support – ensuring individuals can build confidence, skills and stability within a family environment. Mo’s award was accepted by Ethan Long while she volunteers in India running a street‑dog project. Both carers exemplify the values of compassion and commitment at the heart of Shared Lives. Their awards recognise the positive, life‑changing impact they have made on the people they support.