Kay Pike of Plastic Free Axminster named 2026 Citizen of the Year.
Published: 16 January 2026
At the full town council meeting on the 12th of January 2026, Axminster Town Council was delighted to announce that Kay Pike has been named the 2026 Robin Cross Citizen of the Year, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the community and the local environment.
Kay coordinates Plastic Free Axminster, part of the national Surfers Against Sewage campaign. Through this work, she engages with residents, local businesses, schools and community groups to raise awareness of the environmental impact of single-use plastics and supports practical steps to reduce their use, helping Axminster move towards a more sustainable future. Kay also organises regular litter picks in and around the town, bringing volunteers together to care for local streets, paths and green spaces.
The Robin Cross Citizen of the Year Award is presented annually by Axminster Town Council to recognise an individual who has made an exceptional voluntary contribution to the life of the town, demonstrating commitment, community spirit and service to others.
As part of the award, Kay receives £100, which she has chosen to donate to Surfers Against Sewage to support their ongoing work to protect waterways and oceans.
Kay commented on her delight at receiving the award: "It's a real privilege to receive the Robin Cross award, and it will always be a highlight of this particular period of my life. As always, it's never a solo effort, so I thank the Town Council for their support, the members of the Steering Group, our regular team of litter pickers, aka the Litter Picking Lovelies, the ladies who make the Boomerang Bags for us, and all the others mentioned above who have come alongside us. Without them all, the work simply could not be done, and their contributions are all valued and never underestimated”
Town Mayor, Councillor Jill Farrow, commented on Kay’s dedication to Axminster and the environment as a whole: “Kay’s passion for all things environmental has made her a great asset to Axminster. In other towns, things like litter picks are started but fizzle out. Kay continues to lead them regularly and is a credit to the town”
Axminster Town Council extends its thanks to Kay for her dedication and congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition.
