Steve Ellis from St Petrocs homelessness charity has been honoured as the 2022 recipient of the Trelawny Plate for his outstanding contribution across many aspects of Cornish life.
The Trelawny Plate Award is presented every two years to the person judged ‘to have contributed most to the spirit of Cornwall’, providing inspiration for the Cornish and evoking pride in Cornwall. It is chosen by a committee of senior Cornish figures led by Colonel Bolitho, Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall. This award is unique to Cornwall and a huge honour, marking significant recognition in the county.
Steve has been chosen to receive the award following 20 years of outstanding leadership of St Petrocs, working tirelessly to support some of the most vulnerable people in Cornwall. Under his stewardship the charity has played a major role in addressing the issue of homelessness in the county and has become one of the most widely respected organisations in Cornwall and beyond. Steve has recently stepped down from the Chief Executive role, which he has held since 2002, and continues his involvement with St Petrocs as Vice President.
The Lord-Lieutenant’s office commented “His exceptional work, his campaigning and his compassion for people facing great difficulty, single him out as a remarkable community leader, fully deserving the accolade of holder of the Trelawny Plate.”
Speaking about being selected to receive this award, Steve said: “This is truly a humbling yet totally rewarding experience. This means so much to my family, myself and everybody associated with St Petrocs.”
On behalf of St Petrocs, Chief Executive Henry Meacock said “This well-deserved recognition of Steve’s leadership of St Petrocs and his dedication to his work in the homelessness sector is a great honour. We are proud to be able to celebrate this acknowledgement of Steve’s lifelong vocation alongside him and his family at such a prestigious occasion.”
The Trelawny Plate was awarded to Steve at a special service of thanksgiving and celebration on Friday 15th July at the Parish Church of St Nun, Pelynt, the home of the Trelawny family.
The plate originally belonged to Bishop Trelawny, who was arrested and imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1688, and has been donated by the Bishop’s descendant Sir John Trelawny. The original plate is displayed at the Royal Cornwall Museum and each recipient receives a replica.
To see list of previous winners click here