There was double celebration for retired teacher and volunteer Richard Parker as he was crowned People’s Champion of the Year 2017 along with receiving the Lifetime Achievement award at Teignbridge’s Sports and Community Awards, which took place at the Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish Warren, on Friday.

The former Teign School, Kingsteignton teacher has dedicated more than 40 years’ service in education, integrating his love for the outdoors in the school curriculum.

Dick was also the recipient of the Army’s Platinum Award for his work on the Ten Tors.

There was also double joy for young Ethan Kirby as he picked up the title of Junior Sportsperson of the Year to sit proudly alongside his Personal Achievement award received earlier in the evening.

The Newton Abbot Athletics Club runner achieved a bronze medal at the world junior para athletics tournament this year and has aspirations to compete in the Olympics and Paralympics in Tokyo 2020.

Richard and Ethan were among a number of sporting stars celebrating success at the glittering awards night staged at the Langstone Cliff Hotel, Dawlish Warren.

The ceremony recognises athletes, volunteers, sports teams, committee members, coaches and community champions who all go the extra mile to help keep Teignbridge active all year round.

See the Friday, December 8 edition of the Mid-Devon Advertiser for full story and pictures of all the winners.