A graffiti-busting hero, who would ‘do anything for anyone’, has been named Ottery’s Citizen of the Year.

Barry Fearn, 75, received a host of nominations from people in the town, commending his selfless efforts to make it a better place to live.

One voter described him as ‘the kindest person I know’.

The Thorne Farm Way resident was presented with the award by mayor Glyn Dobson at the annual parish meeting on Tuesday.

The extent to which retired Barry will go out of his way to help was recently reported in the Herald, when he was revealed as the anonymous Good Samaritan single-handedly tackling vandalism around town.

On winning the award, Barry said: “I am absolutely delighted.

“There are a lot of people who do a lot of good things in the town.

“I have been here about 11 years, so it’s a real big pat on the back as far as I’m concerned.

“I’m always happy to help, it gives me something to do.”

Reasons given for Barry’s nominations included his acts of kindness, a willingness to ‘help anybody at anytime’ and the, often manual, work he puts in to keep Ottery clean and tidy - including painting over graffiti and keeping pathways clear.

After reading a list of nomination slips, Councillor Dobson said: “There are many more I could read, but how fortunate we are to have someone like this.”

He also praised the work of the many people in the town who volunteer their time and said he ‘sometimes can’t believe the things they do’.

Some of the other people nominated for the award included James Goddard for his work campaigning for Ottery’s hospital and library.

Owners of the Lamb and Flag, Anji and Ron Miles, were put forward for all they do for the community and allowing local groups to use their facilities at no cost.

The Reverend Mac Dick was nominated for his ‘tireless’ work to keep The Station Youth Centre open.

Rosaline Temple was also mentioned for all she does in helping worthy causes.

The annual Citizen of the Year Award was resurrected in 2007 and the winner is the person who receives the most votes from members of the public.