A WILTSHIRE information technology company has received an award from the High Sheriff for its dedication to the community during lockdown.

The High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Ashley Truluck, hand-delivered his award to Kieran Thomas and his team at Priority IT in Westbury for a laptop refurbishment scheme they started back in May.

Mr Truluck had already written to volunteers across Westbury thanking them for their ongoing service but made a special trip to the firm's offices to hear first-hand about the schools and organisations that have been helped and to personally present them with their High Sheriff Community Award.

Mr Thomas, managing director at Priority IT, welcomed Mr Truluck with an office tour while explaining the impact of the initial scheme, in which 150 laptops were donated, refurbished and gifted to students in lockdown. This has led to a new non-profit organisation being set up, called the Wiltshire Digital Drive.

Mr Truluck said: “When I was sworn in as High Sheriff back in March, I advised my theme for the year will be One Community.

"I would shine a light on those who have volunteered their time and expertise to help, but who are not necessarily looking for recognition.

"Kieran and his team have gone above and beyond to make a difference, especially in this difficult time. I’m here to say two of the most powerful phrases in world to them. Thank you and well done.”

Mr Thomas said: “We’re absolutely honoured to receive the award - we were really not expecting it.

"It was a real team effort to get the initial idea off the ground and this award just shows that all our hard work has made a difference across the county.”

The company has already received a personal thank you card from Mrs Sarah Rose Troughton, the Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, for the work they have done.

Mr Thomas is also due to get his name printed on the side of a Great Western Railway high-speed train in recognition of the difference he has made.

The High Sheriff’s Awards are designed to reward the volunteers, charities and community groups who devote their time and energy to improve the communities in which they live and work.