David Gritton has won this year's prestigious Kingsbridge Citizen of the Year award for his outstanding work in the local community.

The Citizen of the Year award, which was introduced by the Kingsbridge Town Council in 2004, recognises the good work being done by local people.

Gritton, known locally as "Crunchy Carrot", is involved in numerous activities throughout the town which benefit both young and old alike.

During Kingsbridge Fair Week, he is the mainstay of the public address system, announcing events and giving his, now legendary, commentaries.

He also organises events such as 'Stars in Their Eyes', tug-of-war, five-a-side football and children's karaoke.

Gritton, an avid Manchester United fan, works at the Kingsbridge-based Tumbly Hill Day Centre.

On behalf of Tumbly Hill, he also spends two days on the Town Square Bandstand, dressed up as Pudsey Bear, raising money for the annual Children In Need appeal.

Gritton was announced the winner at the council's annual civic dinner, held at Kingsbridge's Kings Arms Hotel on March 3.

"David makes a major contribution to the well being of the people of Kingsbridge and is a very worthy winner of Citizen of the Year for 2006," the Kingsbridge Town Council said in a press release.

Jean Stephenson won the first award in recognition of her work at Age Concern, while Peter Trembath picked up last year’s title for his contribution to Fair Week.