AN award made by the local churches to Minehead Middle School pupils who show initiative in serving the local community and fund raising for charity has been won by Anthony Knight.

The Haines Award is named in memory of Ruth and Frank Haines, Minehead residents and church members, who gave much service to local and international charities.

Ruth’s son Andrew Butcher and grandsons, Ralph and Howard, (pictured) travel from East Anglia every year to present the shield, awarded annually since 2012.

Anthony impressed the panel with his dedication to raising money for the mobile chemotherapy unit “The Bumble Bus” supplied by the charity Hope For Tomorrow.

He has been regularly busking at Tesco on a Saturday for the last two years and is usually able to raise £100 in an hour, so his contribution to the charity has been enormous.

An accomplished musician, Anthony plays four instruments and he also sings. He is often involved in performances at concerts and the theatre, either singing, acting or playing.

He has been a student of the Alcombe Methodist Church organ school and plays regularly for services there and at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, in Townsend Road.

Anthony has represented Minehead Middle School in music competitions and either won or come second.

As head boy last year, has spoken in assemblies and helped visiting speakers by ensuring that the technology for projection runs smoothly.

And he recognises the importance of acting as a role model for other pupils, hoping to inspire them to serve their school and community.

“As ever, those making the award were highly impressed with the winner’s dedication to others and his commitment to help and serve in different ways,” said Lynne Wooldridge, who represented Churches Together in Minehead at the presentation ceremony.