The Government has recognised a civil servant who has worked in drug prevention for decades and established a safe space for children at Cup Match.

Shavana Wilson, of the Department of National Drug Control, received the August Public Service Excellence Award.

A statement said Ms Wilson has worked in community drug prevention for decades “with a particular focus on educating children and young people about healthy lifestyles, positive decision-making, resilience and refusal skills relating to drug and alcohol use”.

Ms Wilson put these skills into practice this year by organising the Kid’s Zone at Cup Match.

Children in the Kid’s Zone took part in games and other activities and received “age-appropriate drug prevention and healthy lifestyle messaging” during the two-day Classic.

Adults also received drug prevention tips through the initiative, which many parents hope will become a tradition at the annual event.

David Burt, the Premier and Minister of Finance, said: “Ms Wilson recognised that many children attending Cup Match could benefit from a space designed with them in mind, and in keeping with the Prevention Unit’s mission, she turned that idea into a reality.

“The response from families has shown the value of that effort, and I am pleased to see her recognised with this award.

“Her achievement serves as a reminder of the important role public officers play in strengthening our communities and supporting the people of Bermuda.”

Cherie Whitter, Head of the Public Service, said Ms Wilson’s service has helped strengthen the Prevention Unit’s “connection with children, families and the wider community and her willingness to develop new and creative ways of delivering that work demonstrates both initiative and a genuine commitment to the people we serve”.