Exeter Cathedral was filled with celebration on Saturday 6 June as eleven inspirational people from across Devon were admitted into the Company of St Boniface.
The annual St Boniface Awards, which were established in 2019, honour those who go above and beyond to serve others in their churches, schools and local communities. Named after Devon’s patron saint, who was born in Crediton, the awards highlight outstanding service rooted in the Christian faith.
During the special service, the award recipients were presented with medals by the Bishop of Exeter, the Rt. Rev’d Dr Mike Harrison. Bishop Mike praised their dedication, stating that the recipients represent “just the tip of a very large iceberg of service” and serve as a profound source of inspiration and example across the region.
We are especially delighted to celebrate our very own Pennie Hunt, who was made a Companion of St Boniface and received her medal at the service. This well-deserved honour is awarded to lay people in the Diocese of Exeter who have made a significant contribution to their church community. Pennie has served the Cathedral Community faithfully for many years; she was a member of the Voluntary Choir and was notably one of the first to join when women were admitted. More recently, she has devoted her time to pastoral care, ensuring that cards and greetings are sent to members of the congregation who are sick, bereaved, or in need of encouragement. Our warmest thanks and congratulations go to Pennie for her dedicated service.
Other recipients recognised this year included individuals tackling extraordinary challenges and transforming lives across Devon:
Becky Britton (St George and St Paul, Tiverton), a churchwarden who saved a congregation member’s life by administering CPR and using a defibrillator when they suffered a heart attack during a service.
Nick White (Exmouth), a youth leader who co-founded Hygge Church and pioneered Football 4 All to mentor young people and support families facing complex difficulties.
Anne Byrne (St Michael and All Angels, Heavitree), who founded the Heavitree Friendly Library to create a warm, child-friendly space offering free access to books and refreshments.
Professor Claire Taylor (St Matts, Plymouth), Vice-Chancellor of Plymouth Marjon University, honoured for her visionary leadership in student experience and her dedication to championing social mobility.
Nathan Hill (Exeter Network Church), who uses his personal journey from addiction and crime to faith to lead Cocaine Anonymous in Exeter and support others in recovery.
The full list of this year’s inspirational winners includes: Becky Britton, Anne Byrne, Nathan Hill, Penelope (Penny) Hunt, Anne Jerman, Alison Pinnock, Rachel Carr, Peter Smith, Professor Claire Taylor, Robert Vere, and Nicholas (Nick) White.
Photos: Diocese of Exeter