Ivan Frances is presented with the Citizen of the Year award for 2012 by outgoing Ilfracombe Mayor, Councillor Rod Donovan.

Chairman of Ilfracombe in Bloom - and many other things - wins 2012 award.

A man who has done so many things for Ilfracombe has been named Citizen of the Year by the town council.

Ivan Frances will be known to most people, whether as the courteous shop assistant at Pedlars in the High Street, governor of the Junior School or chairman of Ilfracombe in Bloom.

Handing out the overall accolade of the Pride in Ilfracombe Awards as his last official duty as Mayor, Councillor Rod Donovan said it was the hard work by Ivan and his fellow volunteers which ensured the town won gold in the annual South West in Bloom competition.

“He was town and district councillor for a while, churchwarden and a big part of Ilfracombe Poverty Action Group, helping disadvantaged people in the town,” said Mr Donovan.

“He never stops, he is always doing something.”

Mr Frances was nominated for his initial ward in November – for several categories.

Accepting his award, a modest Mr Frances said the successes were down to the hours put in by many volunteers.

“If it was not for volunteers, all of us doing our part, what would this town be like?” he said.

“The community spirit is outstanding, that’s why people move here, because they want to be part of this community.”