Volunteers who restored an abandoned Grade II-listed manor house and grounds to its former glory have been officially recognised by the Prime Minster.
The Lupton Trust, made up of local unemployed people and professionals, based near Brixham in South Devon, have become latest winners of the David Cameron's Big Society Award.
The five-year-old group breathed life back into the house, once a magnificent estate left to decay after a massive fire destroyed it in 1926.
Prime Minister David Cameron said: "The Lupton Trust has inspired and empowered people, providing work experience for people suffering from mental illness, for disabled people, and for those looking for employment.
"It has built people's confidence in their abilities and helped them to forge new social and business partnerships.
"The project has brought together a community that will leave a powerful and lasting legacy for future generations -it is an excellent example of the Big Society in action," he added.
During the past five years it has restored 25 of the 59 rooms in the house and opened these up to the public. Janet Howard, chairman and founder of Lupton Trust, said: "We are extremely proud to have received this award.
"Our location in the heart of heritage parkland brings a sense of peace and tranquility amidst the hectic demands everyday life, allowing people the time to slow down and take the opportunity to consider their potential within the project and within themselves. This award is the ultimate recognition for the dedication, passion and hard work of everyone involved.
"So many people said that it 'couldn't be done'."
She added: "On paper it doesn't work, there is no business model that comes close to it, we have created 'the Lupton model' we simply allow it to unfold organically and underpin the growth."