THERE were celebrations at St Piran’s Church in Perranzabuloe on March 8 as number of recipients from across the diocese were recognised for their work in churches, communities and schools in Cornwall.

The annual Cross of St Piran Awards took place over two services with Bishop Hugh Nelson presiding and presenting recipients with their crosses. The Cross of St Piran is an annual award which is presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond in their service.

They were largely nominated by their peers and can be recognised for everything from length of service to specific projects.

Fourteen crosses were handed out to those across the diocese.

They include Annette Buchanan (Kerrier Deanery), Ruth Berreta and Philip Gilbert (Carnmarth North Deanery), Jacqui Bennett (Carnmarth South Deanery), Tony Cruddas (Powder Deanery), Viv Farmer (Pydar Deanery) and Stephen Rivers and Edwina Sleeman (St Austell Deanery).

Annette Buchanan (Kerrier Deanery)

Annette and her husband, Sam, have been part of St Keverne Church for over 40 years and she has been part of The Lizard Helpline since its inception over 35 years ago. 

Ruth Berreta and Philip Gilbert (Carnmarth North Deanery)

Ruth has brought tireless energy to the role by developing the social calendar and making best use of the new kitchen, while Philip has been a faithful Churchwarden of this small church for many years, cherishing the style of worship and unique decorative interior for the benefit of many.

Jacqui Bennett (Carnmarth South Deanery)

Jacqui has faithfully served St Budock Parish for more than 25 years, hosting and actively contributing to regular discipleship sessions, preparing audio visual presentations for services and operating the equipment, leading the catering for numerous church events, running Junior Church and more.

Tony Cruddas (Powder Deanery)

All Saints Church committed to delivering the ambitious Life House project and without Tony at the forefront with his perseverance, project management and general positive approach to all challenges faced, it would not be where it is today.

Viv Farmer (Pydar Deanery)

Viv is synonymous with St Mawgan village and Mawgan Porth. She is a strong and supportive person, and this award recognises and thanks her for many years of valued help and support.

Stephen Rivers and Edwina Sleeman (St Austell Deanery)

Stephen is a much-loved member of St Paul’s Charlestown congregation and a valued member of its Parochial Church Council (PCC), while Edwina is an inspiring person who has made a big difference in the community.

Other people collecting the Cross of St Piran award include Judith Ayers (East Wivelshire), Ian Gordon (West Wivelshire Deanery), Rob Tremain (Trigg Major Deanery), Ellen McConnell (Trigg Minor and Bodmin Deanery) and Robert Corney (Stratton Deanery).

There were also six awards given out to people in church schools who include Fiona Harvey (Antony School), Abigail Jessop (The Bishops’ Church of England Learning Academy), Hayley Pitman, Sarah Wilkins (Headteacher of St Meriadoc School), Jon-Joe Wilson (St Dominic Church of England Primary School). While, the The Bishop’s Award was presented to Sheila Waring for her work with the Mothers’ Union (MU).