A SPECIAL awards ceremony took place to recognise the exceptional service and dedication of armed service personnel in Somerset.

Hosted by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, the event recognised outstanding achievements across the reserves, cadet forces, adult volunteers, and supportive employers in Taunton.

Among the evening’s highlights, five individuals were awarded the Lord-Lieutenant’s Certificate for Meritorious Service for their profound impact on their units and communities.

Recipients included:

• Lt col Neill Barrett and chief petty officer David Pollard, both from Downside School Combined Cadet Force.

• Chief petty officer Callum Seggie of Glastonbury and Street Sea Cadets.

• Chief petty officer Davinia Tippett from TS Weston Sea Cadets.

• A posthumous award for serjeant major instructor Kevin Taylor of the Somerset Army Cadet Force, accepted by his family in a special tribute to his dedication and service.

Chief petty officer Davina Tippett Picture: Wessex RFCA

The ceremony also honoured local businesses with the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Silver Award for their exceptional support of the Armed Forces community.

Eight companies, including 1 Servico Ltd, Horstman Defence Systems Ltd, and YTL Group UK, were recognised for their leadership in supporting the Armed Forces Covenant.

Horstman Defence Systems receiving their award Picture: Wessex RFCA

Flight Lieutenant Martin Neate of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets received the Ulysses Trust Award for his exceptional leadership in enabling adventurous training and providing life-changing opportunities for young people.

Additionally, three outstanding cadets were invested as this year’s Lord-Lieutenant’s Cadets.

Leading cadet Natalie Wilson, cadet colour serjeant Joseph Coe, and cadet sergeant George Monk were selected for their leadership, resilience, and service.

Picture: Wessex RFCA

They will support the lord-lieutenant at official events throughout their one-year term.

In his closing address, the lord-lieutenant congratulated all award winners, emphasising their vital role in strengthening both the armed forces and the wider Somerset community.