Penzance Celebrates Local Heroes and Reaffirms Civic Leaders in Glittering Ceremony

Photo: Penzance Award Winners 2024

In a vibrant ceremony on Tuesday 7th May at St John’s Hall, Penzance celebrated the exceptional contributions of its community members and confirmed its civic leaders for another term.

The event, marked by the presence of Councillors, local community groups, and special guests, highlighted the varied and significant efforts of individuals enriching the local community.

Citizen of the Year: A Champion for Marine Conservation

This year’s Brian Spiegelhalter Citizen of the Year award, a tradition upheld since 2004 to commemorate the late former Mayor Brian Spiegelhalter, was bestowed upon Constance Morris. Recognised for her tireless work in marine conservation in Mounts Bay and her educational endeavours through Grampus Campus CIC, Constance was awarded an engraved pewter plate provided by BJ Spiegelhalter & Son.

Spotlight on Youth: Introducing the Mayor’s Young Artist of the Year

2024 also marked the inauguration of the Mayor’s Young Artist of the Year award, reflecting Penzance’s rich cultural tapestry. Zac Henshall, a talented student from Penwith College, was the first to receive this accolade. Zac is set to receive a £500 bursary and will create a visual art piece inspired by the civic year, to be exhibited at the Penlee House Gallery and Museum in 2025.

Photo: Mace Bearers being sworn in by the Town Clerk

Academic and Service Excellence

The ceremony also celebrated academic prowess with Jacob Allen from Mounts Bay Academy receiving the Sir Humphry Davy Prize for his outstanding achievements in chemistry and physics.

In a nod to the importance of cadet programs, Autumn Rhodes-McClean was named the Mayor’s Sea Cadet for 2024/25, receiving her badge of office. Retiring cadets Sonny Marsden, Harry Jenkins, and Edward Willetts were also honoured with certificates acknowledging their dedicated service.

Leadership Reaffirmed

The event reaffirmed the leadership of Stephen Reynolds and Will Elliott as Mayor and Deputy Mayor, respectively. They, along with Civic Deputies Bonnie Jackson and Penny Young, and Town Crier Philip Northcott, are set to continue their roles, fostering community spirit and engagement.

The ceremony concluded with the ceremonial swearing-in of the Mace Bearers, Simon Reed and Andrew Chellew, along with Talan Richards as Deputy Sergeant at Mace. Stephen expressed his honour at being re-elected and highlighted the ceremony as a celebration of community dedication and local democracy.

The festive evening wrapped up with a buffet reception at The Exchange Gallery, where award winners and guests celebrated the communal spirit and achievements of Penzance.

This annual ceremony not only recognises individual achievements but also reinforces the strength and vibrancy of local governance and community involvement in Penzance.

Photo: The Penzance Town Crier