Village champion Preston de Mendonça and inspirational street performer Jeremy Doyle will unveil their own train as Great Western Railway celebrates their community heroics.
Preston, from Cornwood in the South Hams, and Jeremy, from Totnes, were chosen as BBC Make a Difference Superstars for selflessly helping others at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Preston inspired those around him in the village, promoting initiatives to build community cohesion, reduce isolation and support struggling families.
Jeremy rallied to the aid of residents in Totnes, carrying out various repairs, teaching DIY skills, fixing IT issues and putting on a series of street concerts.
The pair were selected as BBC Make a Difference Superstars by judges following a link-up between the BBC and GWR to celebrate those people going above and beyond to help others in their communities.
Now their names are to feature at either end of an Intercity Express Train as GWR continues to honour BBC Make a Difference Superstars from nine regions across the network.
South West Devon MP Gary Streeter said: “Preston’s community spirit was an example to many and typified the way that our communities pulled together through unprecedented times. I am delighted that his selfless public service has been recognised by GWR.”
Totnes MP Anthony Mangnall said: “I am very pleased that Jeremy’s selfless efforts during the pandemic have been recognised and that there will be a lasting reminder of his contribution to the community. This honour is very well deserved and reflects the gratitude of the residents of Totnes.”
Great Western Railway Regional Station Manager West Mark Chorley said: “Preston and Jeremy went to incredible lengths to support their communities and we’re thrilled to add their names to the side of an Intercity Express Train.
“The GWR has a long and proud history of naming trains after Great Westerners – past and present heroes from across our network – and it’s a real treat to add these two community stalwarts to that list.
“It was a privilege to partner with the BBC Make a Difference campaign and the stories which featured on BBC local radio were truly overwhelming.”
Head of Audio and Digital for BBC England Chris Burns said: “We have been amazed by the response of many listeners to our Make a Difference campaign on Local BBC Radio, as listeners have been helping each other out throughout the pandemic.
“It has been humbling to learn about the kind-hearted efforts of so many in our communities and Preston and Jeremy are great examples to the rest of us. Congratulations to them and to the team at BBC Radio Devon.”
Photo credit: Great Western Railway
