ACED Volunteer award finalist
Congratulations to our volunteer, David Wright, who was a finalist in the recent ACED Volunteer of the Year Awards.
The awards celebrate the vital contributions of volunteers to arts and heritage organisations across East Devon, highlighting the positive impact they have on the region’s cultural landscape. David was one of eight finalists recognised at the recent ACED Network summer meeting, held at A La Ronde in Exmouth, where the winner, Laura Hewitt of Seaton Museum, was announced.
David has been involved with Budleigh Music Festival since its early days, working alongside founder Roger Bowen and supporting two subsequent artistic directors. He became a trustee of the organisation in 2017, stepping down after four years to enjoy his retirement and travel. Following this, he took on a new role as volunteer lead, drawing on decades of experience with Save the Children to support and encourage fellow volunteers, ensuring everyone felt valued and heard.
Kate Somerby, Chair of Budleigh Music Festival, said: “David lives and breathes our mission to bring high-calibre music to East Devon. He has been instrumental in the festival’s growth, acting as a ‘culture carrier’ to newer volunteers. Always willing to lend a hand or a listening ear, David has taken on every imaginable role—from marketing lead to barman, erecting banners to developing safeguarding policy.
“He was among the first to recognise the need to professionalise aspects of the festival. Together with his wife, he helped develop new branding, championed the creation of a new website, and brought in fresh voices to help rejuvenate the organisation.”
Kate added: “David continues to lead from the front. Last year, he served as a steward, event announcer, Festival ambassador, and volunteer co-ordinator. He is the ultimate team player – the ‘wise man’ of the Festival – always generous with his time and spirit, and determined to secure the future of Budleigh Music Festival.”
David is pictured with Pamela Marino, the Festival’s education lead, who was a finalist in the awards last year.
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