There are so many people in our local communities who go above and beyond to protect the landscapes, stories and traditions that make Cornwall special. That’s why, last week, we once again came together to recognise their dedication and achievements at our Heritage Champion Awards. These annual awards are now in their 16th year.
Since 2009, we have annually recognised our Heritage Champion, an award which celebrates the achievements of an individual who has made a significant contribution to Cornwall’s heritage in a voluntary capacity. Nominations for this award are submitted by the public and, due to the strength of their applications, this year, it was decided that two people would be recognised – one as Heritage Champion and one for Lifetime Achievement.
This year’s winners were Jack Marchi and Audrey Alymer. Huge congratulations to you both!
Nearly 100 guests gathered at Scorrier House to celebrate their achievements last Wednesday. The event was sponsored by Coodes Solicitors.
Jack Marchi – Heritage Champion 2025
Jack was named the winner of the Sir Richard Trant Memorial Award for Heritage Champion Award 2025. The award was introduced in 2009 and is presented annually in memory of General Sir Richard Trant, past Chairman of Cornwall Heritage Trust.
Jack won the award for his work for his outstanding dedication to the preservation, study, and digital interpretation of Cornwall’s rich historical landscape.
Jack uniquely bridges cutting-edge technology and heritage conservation through his work as a digital archaeologist, data scientist, and passionate volunteer. He has made critical discoveries for work such as Cornwall Wildlife Trust’s Ancient Woodland Project and travels extensively across Cornwall capturing high-resolution drone footage and producing 3D photogrammetry models of ancient monuments. He also creates detailed 3D topographic LiDAR maps using Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Despite a demanding career as a mining consultant and data scientist at Groundsure, Jack devotes his personal time and expertise to projects that make archaeology more accessible, engaging, and future-proofed. His work bridges technology and heritage, safeguarding Cornwall’s past.
The Judging Panel felt that his nomination stood out because the impact of his contribution was significant and would make a real difference for the future.
Audrey Alymer – Lifetime Achievement Award 2025
Audrey was given this award for her role as Archivist for Bude-Stratton and District Old Cornwall Society, a position she has occupied for over 30 years.
Her work has ensured that the local history has been gathered, recorded and preserved and she has undertaken research projects to bring the history of the area alive, including researching those who served in WW1 and WW2 for the anniversary celebrations. She has also helped other local organisations, such as the Bude Heritage Centre, research and present the story of the area.
Those who nominated her said that Audrey’s knowledge of the area is unparalleled and that the impact of her work will continue long into the future, as the history she has so conscientiously cared for helps future generations to learn about Cornwall’s past.
Audrey is 97 years old and, while hugely honoured to receive this award, opted to be presented with it nearer to home a couple of weeks before the event.
An opportunity to celebrate 40 years of protecting Cornwall’s heritage
The event was hosted by Cornwall Heritage Trust’s President, Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall, Colonel Sir Edward Bolitho KCVO OBE; the Trust’s Chairman, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Trant; and Daphne Skinnard from BBC Radio Cornwall.
It was a wonderful opportunity to gather and celebrate Jack and Audrey’s hard work and dedication, as well as to reflect on the achievements of our charity’s 40th anniversary and those of the last 40 years protecting Cornwall’s heritage.
As part of this, Alison and Merv Davey were presented with Honorary Life Membership in recognition of their unstinting support to the Trust over a number of years.
Over the years, Alison and Merv have been hugely supportive of the Trust and not just because Alison is a Trustee! They run dance workshops with the children at St Cleer as part of the annual well dressing event and perform at Awenek as well as offering advice and support throughout the year.
They have worked tirelessly to support the Trust’s events throughout this special anniversary year in all weathers and conditions. We are incredibly grateful for their support!
A huge thank you to our sponsors
The event was sponsored by Coodes Solicitors. This is the fourth year running that the organisation has sponsored these awards and we’re hugely grateful for its continued support.
Our thanks also go to Camel Valley, Colwith Farm Distillery and Navas Drinks for keeping our guests hydrated.
Prizes for our fundraising raffle were also generously donated by Life Member, Kim Conchie and Camel Valley.
Nominations now open for 2026
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to preserve and strengthen Cornwall’s heritage?
If you know someone who champions Cornwall’s heritage in a voluntary capacity, then we would love for you to nominate them for our Heritage Champion Awards 2026.
Anyone can submit a nomination which should be supported by letters from people with first-hand knowledge of the nominee, who can endorse their contribution or supply additional information.
