President Keith Turner and Colin Rowland

‘Inspiring’ charity fundraiser, marathon runner and Olympic torch bearer Colin Rowland has been named citizen of the year 2012 by Exmouth and district Rotary Club.

The award was presented to Colin by club president Keith Turner during their festive celebrations.

Colin, a lifetime resident of the town, has suffered from Type one diabetes since the age of eight but this has never prevented him from full involvement in the life of the community.

Keith Turner said: “Though he has spent a lifetime in the waste water and pumping industry he has nevertheless maintained his base in Exmouth. “Fully supporting a lifetime of research and into Type 1 diabetes, he has raised funds for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and has also been involved in many other charitable ventures within Exmouth and the wider community.”

In support of his charitable efforts, Colin has completed five London Marathons and in 2012 was chosen to carry the Olympic Torch on part of its journey around the country and he was pleased to loan the torch for the Exmouth School’s Relay.

Keith added: “Rotary is delighted to have him now as one of its members and it looks forward to helping him in his future charitable ventures.”