Two remarkable Somerset organisations have been honoured with High Sheriff's Awards – and their impact on local children is nothing short of inspiring.

Devito's Circus, based in Street, is officially the smallest touring Big Top in the country – just 175 seats, six performers and one massive heart. Co-founded by David Devito and Mark Foot, the show blends classic circus thrills with relaxed performances for neurodivergent guests, championing kindness, inclusion and comedy that cuts through barriers.

It's more than just entertainment. The circus works hand-in-hand with Glastonbury charity Children's World, hiring young people from the community to run the front of house, sell candyfloss, or work backstage on lighting and sound. It's all part of a mission to give every child a role, a purpose, and a place to belong.

"This is my dream, finally coming true," said Devito, who is autistic and was bullied at school. "The circus is my happy place – and now it can be theirs too."

Children's World, led by Angela Bolton, has been changing lives since 1981 with inclusive workshops, residencies and school projects across Somerset – always with a focus on children with special needs.

The High Sheriff described both organisations as "truly inspirational" and said the awards were a small token of appreciation for the "remarkable difference they continue to make".

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