Regional Volunteer Awards 2026: South West
On Saturday evening we celebrated the amazing volunteers in the South West at our 2026 Regional Volunteer Awards! The Devon Hotel, Exeter, hosted a great celebration to thank the region's volunteers and recognise their contribution to our sport.
A huge congratulations to all of the nominees and winners - let's get to know our volunteers!
Club of the Year
Winner: Cheltenham & County Harriers
Cheltenham & County Harriers continues to set the standard for community athletics through its commitment to inclusion, participation and athlete development. Supporting more than 640 members, including one of the largest junior sections in the South West, the club provides opportunities for athletes of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to thrive. Despite significant facility challenges, Cheltenham has continued to develop national champions, international athletes and outstanding volunteer pathways while maintaining a culture where members consistently describe the club as family. Its impact on confidence, wellbeing, friendship and opportunity extends far beyond competition results, making it a deserving Club of the Year winner.
Second place: City of Salisbury Athletics and Running Club
City of Salisbury Athletics & Running Club has demonstrated exceptional commitment to participation, inclusion and athlete development. Supporting more than 650 athletes across all ages and abilities, the club provides opportunities ranging from first steps through Couch to 5K to national and international competition. Innovative programmes, strong volunteer leadership and a commitment to sustainability have strengthened the club both on and off the track. Whether supporting SEND athletes, para-athletes, juniors, masters competitors or social runners, CoSARC creates an environment where everyone can succeed. Its combination of ambition, community impact and inclusive values makes it an outstanding runner-up.
Third place: Bristol & West AC
Bristol & West AC continues to combine national success with outstanding volunteer leadership and athlete development. Alongside retaining the National 12 Stage Road Relay title, the club has invested in coaching education, youth voice initiatives and the long-term future of athletics facilities in Bristol. A strong commitment to accessibility, affordability and volunteer recognition ensures members at every level feel valued and supported. Through forward-thinking governance, investment in people and a passion for creating opportunities, Bristol & West AC continues to strengthen athletics across the city and wider region while maintaining its reputation as one of the country's leading clubs.
Unsung Hero of the Year
Winner: Nicola Parker (Cornwall Athletics Academy)
Nicola Parker has been instrumental in the growth and success of Cornwall Athletics Academy, helping create opportunities for hundreds of young athletes and their families. As Membership Secretary and volunteer leader, she has played a pivotal role in developing programmes that support children from age four upwards, ensuring athletics remains accessible, inclusive and enjoyable. Her work extends far beyond administration, supporting neurodiverse athletes, encouraging new volunteers and helping parents become more involved in the sport. Nicola’s dedication, vision and tireless commitment have helped establish a thriving athletics community that continues to inspire young people throughout Cornwall.
Winner: Eugene Hechavarria (Bristol & West AC)
Eugene Hechavarria has become one of the most recognisable and influential coaches in South West athletics. Coaching every day of the week across Bristol & West AC, Bath AC and Yate AC, he dedicates his time to nurturing young athletes, developing new coaches and building strong club communities. Known for his energy, enthusiasm and ability to make every athlete feel valued, Eugene has helped introduce countless young people to athletics while supporting talented performers to fulfil their potential. His commitment extends far beyond coaching sessions, providing mentorship, encouragement and opportunity wherever needed. His impact across the region has been exceptional.
Winner: Robert Linskill (North Devon AC)
Robert Linskill has devoted more than 30 years to supporting athletes at North Devon Athletics Club through coaching, mentorship and behind-the-scenes volunteer work. As Lead Sprints and Jumps Coach, he has guided numerous athletes to English Schools Championships while creating a positive and supportive environment where young people can thrive. Beyond coaching, Rob undertakes countless practical tasks to maintain the club’s facilities, often without recognition or thanks. His willingness to adapt, evolve and support athletes through modern challenges has helped improve participation, retention and enjoyment across the club. His contribution remains invaluable to North Devon athletics.
Winner: Adam Nicholass (Bournemouth AC)
Adam Nicholass has demonstrated extraordinary commitment to Bournemouth Athletic Club through his leadership as Southern Athletics League Team Manager. Balancing a demanding NHS career in London, Adam regularly travels significant distances to support the club, organise teams and ensure athletes have every opportunity to compete. When events are left uncovered, he willingly steps in himself, often sacrificing his own competition plans for the benefit of the team. His positivity, encouragement and ability to create a strong team atmosphere have revitalised the club's league programme and inspired athletes across all age groups. Adam’s dedication, reliability and selflessness make him a truly outstanding volunteer.
Winner: Jim Eggleton (Cornwall AC)
Jim Eggleton is the very definition of an unsung hero. A long-time runner turned volunteer and Level 2 Field Official, Jim has quietly become one of the most dependable figures in Cornwall athletics. Whether at county championships, schools competitions, academy events or regional fixtures, he is almost always present, often travelling more than two hours each way to support competitions. Beyond officiating, he helps maintain electronic measuring equipment, prepares facilities, supports volunteers and contributes to the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Cornwall Athletics Academy. From serving refreshments to athletes and volunteers to undertaking countless practical tasks behind the scenes, Jim embodies selfless service and commitment to athletics.
Winner: Fiona Knight (Yeovil Olympiads AC)
Fiona Knight has devoted many years of outstanding service to athletics as a Level 3 Track Judge, official, mentor and volunteer. After returning to Yeovil Olympiads around a decade ago, she quickly re-established herself as one of the club’s most reliable and hardworking volunteers. Fiona is renowned for being among the first to arrive and last to leave at competitions, taking on physically demanding tasks to ensure events run smoothly. A former high-level athlete herself, she combines technical expertise with a passion for supporting others, mentoring new officials and inspiring volunteers to remain involved in the sport. Her contribution has benefited athletes at club, county and regional level.
Winner: Karen O'Sullivan (Weston Whippets Running Club)
Karen O’Sullivan has become a central figure within Weston Whippets Running Club through her warmth, kindness and unwavering support for fellow members. As a Run Leader, Coach and Member Support Lead, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure runners feel welcomed, encouraged and valued. Whether supporting someone through a difficult period, adapting training plans to help individuals succeed or simply making time to listen, Karen always puts others first. Her genuine care for people has created a culture of belonging and support throughout the club. She is trusted, respected and admired by members, making her a true unsung hero.
Winner: Charlotte Lewis (Weston Whippets Running Club)
Charlotte Lewis has helped make Weston Whippets Running Club an exceptionally welcoming and inclusive environment through her work as Welfare Officer and Run Leader. Her support for children and adults with additional needs has ensured participants feel valued, supported and able to thrive. Through initiatives such as funetics, Charlotte has worked closely with families to understand individual requirements and remove barriers to participation. Her thoughtful and compassionate approach helps create an environment where every child can succeed, build confidence and enjoy being active. Much of this work happens quietly behind the scenes, but its impact on families and the wider community is profound.
Winner: Geraint Torrington (Westbury Harriers)
Following the loss of his wife to cancer at the end of 2024, Geraint Torrington showed remarkable resilience by stepping into the role of Chair at Westbury Harriers in 2025. Bringing energy, humour and a positive outlook during a difficult personal period, he has helped drive the club forward while ensuring volunteers feel valued and supported. Geraint has served the club in numerous roles over the past 15 years, including Secretary, Development Coordinator and Men’s Team Manager. Alongside chairing committee meetings and supporting club development, he organises the annual awards evening, supports cross-country teams, volunteers at club races and brings joy to younger members as Father Christmas and the Easter Bunny.
Winner: Ray Bell (Swindon Harriers)
Ray Bell is at the heart of Swindon Harriers, providing the leadership, expertise and commitment that keeps the club running smoothly. While officially serving as Treasurer, his contribution extends into almost every aspect of club life, including facility management, competition administration, membership systems and event organisation. Ray’s knowledge and reliability make him the person members turn to whenever help is needed. Much of his work happens behind the scenes and often goes unnoticed, yet it is fundamental to the club’s success. Through his dedication and selfless service, Ray has become an irreplaceable figure within Swindon athletics.
Unsung Project of the year
Winner: Almost Athletes
Almost Athletes has demonstrated how a running club can become a powerful force for positive change through its “So Much More Than Just a Running Club” initiative. By combining running, volunteering, wellbeing support and charitable partnerships, the project has strengthened community engagement while creating meaningful opportunities for members to support others. Through fundraising, mental health initiatives, parkrun volunteering, local charity partnerships and community activities, the club has created a culture where participation extends beyond training and racing. Its focus on kindness, inclusion and community impact has enriched the lives of members and local residents alike, delivering benefits far beyond running itself.
"It is essential for Almost Athletes to be part of the Cheltenham community. We're known as the purple army across Gloucestershire because we support other clubs and raise lots of our own money to support charities. It's very much part of our ethos."
Runner up: Smiley Miley's (Exmouth Running Club)
Smiley Miley’s has created a safe and supportive space where movement and mental wellbeing come together. Through a simple run, walk or jog alongside others, participants are encouraged to have open conversations about mental health in an inclusive and non-judgemental environment. The project has helped reduce stigma, increase confidence and strengthen community connections while providing meaningful support for people facing difficult circumstances. By attracting both club members and local residents, Smiley Miley’s has demonstrated how athletics can be used as a powerful tool for improving wellbeing and bringing people together through shared experiences and mutual support.
Services to Athletics and Running
Winner: Maureen Watkins (Cornwall AC)
For more than 40 years, Maureen Watkins has been one of the most respected officials in South West athletics. A Level 3 Field Judge and experienced Track Judge, she has devoted countless hours to supporting competitions across Cornwall and beyond while mentoring the next generation of officials. Even during challenging personal circumstances, Maureen has continued to provide leadership, guidance and encouragement to volunteers and colleagues. Her knowledge, reliability and willingness to support schools, clubs and county events have made a significant contribution to athletics in the region. Through decades of dedicated service, Maureen has helped countless events and athletes succeed.
Winner: Dave Varney (Newquay & Par AC)
Dave Varney has devoted a lifetime to athletics as a coach, official, administrator and volunteer. From his work with Newquay & Par AC and Cornwall Athletics to his contributions at county and regional level, Dave has consistently gone above and beyond to support athletes and the wider sport. He continues to coach multiple generations of runners, organise competitions and manage representative teams while remaining a trusted source of knowledge and guidance. Highly respected throughout the South West, Dave’s commitment, enthusiasm and leadership have shaped athletics across Cornwall for decades and created opportunities for countless athletes, coaches and volunteers.
"Legend is a difficult word to live up to! Because I enjoy it, I just want to transfer that over to the athletes. I love the sport and the people who are involved in it."
Dave also received the Room to Reward hotel stay voucher to say thank you for the time he has given to the sport.
Winner: Paul Weston (Bristol & West AC)
Paul Weston has made an exceptional contribution to athletics through more than 15 years of coaching and athlete development. A former England international triple jumper, he has dedicated his expertise to supporting jumpers of all abilities, helping many progress to regional, national and international success. Known for his technical knowledge, humility and unwavering commitment, Paul consistently gives his time to training, competitions and major championships while supporting athletes through every stage of their journey. The respect he enjoys throughout Bristol & West AC and the wider athletics community reflects the profound impact he has had on generations of athletes and the sport as a whole.
It was also great to be joined on the evening by Jo Pavey and Poppy Tank and to hear about their journeys through athletics and the volunteers who have impacted them the most.
"My first coach Simon Anderson was so generous with his time. Athletics was always so fun growing up and that's a big part of why I'm still in the sport now. Simon just made it so fun. It's so easy to get carried away and serious about competing, which is important, but what's the point if you don't enjoy it, especially for the young athletes." Poppy
"Athletics is a safe space with like-minded people , it definitely helps you are a person. I really value everything the sport has given me through the support of the volunteers providing the opportunities." Jo