Key members of the Ripon community were celebrated at a major awards ceremony in the cathedral last week.
The third annual St Wilfrid’s Stars Awards, hosted by Ripon Together, celebrated those that had made significant contributions over the year to the city and its people.
An audience of around 300 attended the event after more than 700 nominations.
Visitors were treated to performances from three talented musicians from Ripon Grammar School and from the All For One Choir led by Rachel Garnett.
Dean John Dobson, Dean of Ripon and Chair of Ripon Together, said:
“The St. Wilfrid Stars Awards Event was a brilliant evening with wide engagement from the community and some great entertainment.
“After just three years, this Ripon Together initiative is now established as an annual celebration of those who do so much for the city and its people.
“It is fitting that these stars should be recognised and thanked.”
A special award was given to Mick Stanley for his leadership of the project, whilst the award for the overall ‘volunteer of the year’ was given to David Ingham.
He led both the Summer Funfest, which delivered free activities and meals over a week in August for around 600 children, and the Green Fair in October, which attracted around 250 people.
He is also the local coordinator for the Walk to School scheme.
Another highlight was the culture award for Xen Kelsey for his decades of service to the local classical music scene, which is a special feature of Ripon.
Gary Campeljohn was similarly recognised for his long service and leadership of Ripon Football Club.
The organising committee of the St Wilfrid’s Procession also picked up an award.
Another feature of the evening was the great contribution of young people to the city.
The young volunteers who run the Lego Club and the summer reading challenge at the library picked up an award, as did Zoe Ingham and Bethany Murphy who have been involved in so much throughout the year.
And the parents of the cathedral’s choristers nominated Ronny Krippner, the cathedral’s director of music, for his engagement with young people across the area which has resulted in the cathedral choir’s widening reputation both nationally and internationally.
Simon Hewitt, a director of Ripon Together, said:
“There was a very positive vibe at the event, which was a great expression of support and appreciation for those nominated.
“However, we know that there are so many more people who could have been nominated and we very much hope the people of Ripon will ensure that they also get the thanks they deserve from our community at next year’s ceremony.”
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