The Redruth Charity Trust held its much-anticipated Community Awards Celebration Evening on 23rd October 2024, at the Penventon Park Hotel. Trustees Alan Jewell and Scott Watters co-hosted to warmly welcome guests to an evening dedicated to celebrating the resilience, commitment, and vibrant community spirit within Redruth. 150 representatives from local clubs, societies, and organisations gathered for an evening of awards, laughter, and heartfelt recognition of the impactful work these groups achieve.
The Trust’s Community Awards aim to honour and support clubs and groups that enrich lives across the Redruth area. With a 2024 fund totalling over £9,000, this year’s awards provide financial support to enable 35 local groups to continue offering invaluable services, activities, and resources. Trustee Scott Watters shared his gratitude; “Each recipient, through their work, strengthens the fabric of the Redruth community by providing connections, resources, and joy for people of all ages”.
A new and significant highlight of this year’s event was the introduction of the Clive Blake Shield, presented in memory of Dr. Clive Blake, a former Chair and Trustee of the Redruth Charity Trust, to honour an individual whose commitment and service have greatly enriched the community. The inaugural recipient, Father Peter Fellows, was selected by Trustees for his unwavering dedication and support across Redruth. Although he retired 12 years ago, Father Peter has continued to volunteer his time and efforts, playing a pivotal role in various community initiatives. His contributions include leading local churches, mentoring youth groups, and supporting food banks and charities. Known for his compassionate outreach, Father Peter also visits the sick and elderly, providing comfort and companionship, while organising community events that foster connection and support. This award celebrates his remarkable contributions and reflects the kindness and spirit of selfless service that Dr. Blake embodied, making Father Peter a fitting and inspirational first recipient.
Another reason to celebrate was Alan Jewell’s 30th anniversary as a trustee. Alan has volunteered with the Redruth Charity Trust since 1994, and his fellow trustees surprised him with an engraved glass tankard. Together with Nigel Pearce and Chris Hailey, the trio’s combined service now totals 99 years!
The Redruth Charity Trust extends heartfelt thanks to event sponsors for their generous support, including Gold Sponsors Specsavers of Redruth and The Penventon Park Hotel. This important partnership was reflected with representatives presenting the awards – thank you Lucy Eva of Specsavers, Connor Stevens of Penventon and Father Peter Fellows.
The celebration evening was filmed and streamed live, to share with club members, family, and friends who couldn’t attend. The professional AV production in the room and online was provided by Matt and Morgan of Cornwall Funeral Services.
A highlight of the evening was 17-year-old Emily Smith, who wowed the audience with her exceptional talent. Currently rehearsing as the Principal Girl for the upcoming RAMPS pantomime, The Adventures of Robin Hood, Emily performed twice, singing “Stranger to the Rain” from the musical Children of Eden and “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables.
In a summary speech Chair of Trustees Chris Hailey highlighted the evolution of the Community Awards since 1993 made a major announcement regarding a legacy gift of £10,400 from the late Russell Grigg, a former local businessman and Rotarian, prompting attendees to raise a glass in his memory, followed by a round of applause in acknowledgment.
“RCT’s 2024 Community Awards event marked a significant milestone in our 31st year as a registered charity, showcasing the incredible work being done within our community. It is truly inspiring to see how far we’ve come since our first awards in 1993, evolving from modest cheque distributions to a vibrant celebration of local initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of so many.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team of trustees and our generous sponsors, whose support has been crucial in enabling us to invest over £30,000 in Redruth this year alone. The awards are a testament to the commitment and passion of local clubs and organizations that work tirelessly to uplift our community.
A special highlight of the evening was the announcement of a legacy gift from the late Russell Grigg, which will allow us to further our mission in the coming years. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Redruth, and I encourage everyone to continue this vital work. Thank you to all who joined us and to those who support our cause.”
Chris Hailey, Chair of Trustees
The Trust extends its thanks to the Penventon Park Hotel for hosting the presentation event in our 31st year of the Community Awards and to the sponsors that supported the 2024 Community Awards:
GOLD Penventon Park Hotel, Specsavers Redruth;
SILVER Cornish Metals, Cornwall Electrical Contactors, David Reynolds Building Preservation, Gull Rock Events, JR Flat Roofing, MY Motors;
BRONZE Charles Green Design, Edmundson Electrical, the Foot Health Practice, May & Watson Properties, Redruth Revival;
TIN One and All Consulting.
2024 Redruth Charity Trust Community Awards Recipients
Portreath Pre-School Playgroup received £200 for storage facilities to improve safety and efficiency at this beloved early years setting.
Kernow Music Fountain CIC was awarded £150 to support community-based media and arts activities, which encourage artistic engagement and inclusion.
St Andrew’s Church Warm Space received £200 to help provide essential food supplies, sustaining this safe haven for those facing life’s challenges.
Lanner and District Silver Band was awarded £460.80 for durable music stands, enabling performances at outdoor events and celebrating the joy of brass banding.
Hevva Cornish Dance Group received £200 to support recruiting young musicians, helping preserve Cornish heritage through dance and music.
Redruth Amateur Operatic Society Trust (RAOSTYS) was awarded £200 to assist with costume costs for their youth production, fostering creativity and camaraderie among local youth.
1st St Andrew’s Redruth Brownies received £100 for new cooking and craft supplies, enriching the Brownies’ learning experiences.
Red Choughs Walking Netball received £320 to help with team uniforms and coaching resources, promoting health, rehabilitation, and community participation.
Bethel Youth Café was awarded £200 to support meal costs, fostering a supportive environment for young people and volunteers to connect and learn.
Redruth Parish Churches received £200 to support a remembrance book project, providing a meaningful memorial space for the community.
Breakfast Stop was awarded £150 to purchase cutlery and food warmers, enhancing this valued monthly social event in Carnkie Village.
Cornwall Legal Centre received £500 to help with office set-up costs, providing free legal advice to residents and promoting access to justice.
Fluxus Cornwall CIC received £194.99 for a MicroClub Kit, fostering intergenerational creativity at their community workshop.
Redruth Rugby Club received £250 to support social events for elderly residents, promoting well-being and community connection.
Redruth Clothes Bank was awarded £361.20 for display and storage equipment, helping enhance access to free clothing for those in need.
1st Pool Brownies received £166.37 to fund outdoor shelters, enabling safe camping experiences for young members.
Sunny Days Nursery & Pre-School was awarded £200 towards the purchase of a new oven, ensuring children receive hot and nutritious meals.
Redruth Learning Group Dance received £400 for transport, costumes, and props, empowering local schoolchildren to build confidence through dance.
Portreath Pilot Gig Club was awarded £279.93 to purchase VHF radios, supporting safe rowing activities for local residents.
Redruth Tennis Club received £200 for a Pickleball start-up pack, expanding recreational opportunities for mature members.
Redruth Amateur Musical and Pantomime Society was awarded £400 to support the replacement of their proscenium arch, helping preserve their performances for future audiences.
1st Redruth Guides received £225 for new tents, enabling a variety of enriching outdoor activities.
St Day Youth and Sport Association was awarded £300 for tables and chairs, supporting the development of their local venue, Vogue Park.
Akagawa Karate received £200 to purchase impact equipment, enhancing inclusivity and mental health benefits in their classes.
TOAST was awarded £200 to support an after-school club offering a safe and social space for youth.
Harmony Permaculture received £200 to enhance supplies for nature-based education, engaging children with sustainable practices.
77 Squadron RAF Air Cadets was awarded £400 to purchase a “Choking Charlie” manikin, supporting essential first aid training.
Sunrise Cornwall CIC received £197.09 for art supplies, offering healing workshops to adults affected by loss.
Redruth Town Band received £200 for stand banners and music stands, supporting their commitment to local heritage and music.
1st Redruth Rangers was awarded £225 for a 5-person tent, fostering independence and adventure for young women.
Bethel Community Larder received £498.56 for storage and equipment, supporting their community food and resource initiatives.
Kekezza was awarded £200 to help preserve traditional Cornish dance costumes, supporting the group’s cultural outreach.
Lonely Pawz Charity received £200 to provide winter bedding and heat lamps, supporting rescued animals in need.
Gwealan Tops received £500 for play equipment, supporting Cornwall’s only adventure playground that’s free for local youth.
