Ref. 30945-10HIGHWORTH hero Bernard Berry has been honoured for his role in getting the town a luxurious new football pavilion.

For years, young soccer stars had to make do with getting changed in cars.

But, thanks to Bernard, Highworth Junior Football Club players have a new £580,000 pavilion with changing rooms, hot showers a coaching area and kitchen.

Now he has received the town's most prestigious community honour being named Highworth Citizen of the Year.

Bernard, who is the chairman of the club, was presented with his shield at the town's civic service at the weekend.

Town mayor Gordon Jefferies said his selfless dedication was a shining example to others.

"He was responsible for getting all the funding in place for the new pavilion," he said.

"It's an elaborate building and a real boost to the town.

"Bernard has a real talent for community work and has been invaluable over the years.

"In light of his excellent work, this award is totally justified.

"It's a great honour to be praised for community work."

Bernard was selected from three nominations by a special town council committee.

He has been involved with the club for 28 years, coaching and refereeing.

But the 68-year-old, of Cherry Orchard, Highworth, was modest about his honour, saying he couldn't have built the facilities without the help of others.

"I'm please my hard work has been recognised. But I'm the figurehead for a big club involving lots of people," he said.

"I pulled everything together but I owe this award to the hard work put in by committee members, team managers and coaches."

As a tribute, he donated his £100 prize to club funds.

Swindon Town goalie Rhys Evans who played for Highworth in his youth officially opened the clubhouse in May.

Most of the cash for the pavilion on the club's ground off Swindon Road came from the Football Foundation.

The rest came from the Football Association, Swin-don Council, Highworth Town Council and landfill tax credits.

Tamash Lal