Volunteer Awards evening 2024: South West
On Saturday night we were in Exeter to celebrate all the incredible efforts of the volunteers in the South West region. It was a fantastic night recognising the wonderful achievements these volunteers have on their local community! Read all about the award winners.
Club Leader of the year
Winner: Iain Osborne (Team Bath AC)
Iain ‘Oz’ is the Track & Field manager for the U13-U15 YDL teams and the junior section of the local league, as well as being part of the club executive committee. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership since joining Team Bath, particularly by boosting club participation in all areas. His kind and inclusive approach has significantly enhanced the club’s success, especially in recruiting volunteers. Oz’s initiatives have doubled junior membership by keeping competing fun and engaging.
Runner up: Geoff Cole (Yeovil Olympiads AC)
As club chairman at Yeovil Olympiads AC, Geoff showed great leadership after being informed the club was under threat of imminent closure due to a financial emergency within the County Council that owned the facility. His leadership helped the petition gain over 15,000 signatures, and he rallied together with other affected sports clubs to attempt to influence key decision makers. Geoff's work in raising the profile of the threatened cuts undoubtedly saved the athletics arena, hockey club, and the joining football pitches from closure.
"It means a lot to me to be nominated, but without the team behind me it wouldn't have been the success that it is. I am in the fortunate position where I can lead them and direct them but without the team we would not be able to do what we do."
Club of the year
Winner: Poole Runners
An inclusive and supportive club, offering sessions for junior and senior athletes of all levels. The club’s annual Couch to 5k programme is popular, and a walk group was added to the club run night for those who want to participate but are unable to run. Alongside a growth in juniors and seniors, they have a growing team of volunteers, with parents encouraged to assist at sessions and many going on to gain qualifications.
"The senior side is so inclusive, we have a club walk, a couch to 5K program, women's health talks to get all people involved. The junior side has grown to over 300 members, the junior committee have been phenomenal and really stepped up."
Runner up: Yate & District AC
A friendly, welcoming and inclusive club, open to all age groups and abilities. With over 400 members, Yate AC offers competition opportunities at all levels, with teenage athletes having the chance to progress in coaching. Training costs are kept low to ensure accessibility, and new attendees always receive a warm welcome. The club has a growing number of competitive para athletes, who receive specialist adaptive training sessions. From BUCS and English Schools to masters athletes on the international stage, all achievements are celebrated.
"It is all the people that make up the club that makes it what it is. We have identified a need for physio development, so that is something we are trying to set up next."
Runner up: Avon Valley Runners
Avon Valley Runners offer a variety of training sessions for all abilities, meaning everyone can enjoy their training with like-minded others. Their Goal Getters scheme gives members the chance to be mentored by another club member, providing a friendly face to support, encourage and advise – often resulting in both new PBs and friendships. The club has hosted its first “Foodbank Run”, as well as raising a brilliant £1,600 for local Wiltshire Air Ambulance charity through the AVR Wiltshire Half Marathon.
Coach of the year
Winner: Fiona Price (Avon Valley Runners)
Fiona is a leading light in the club’s coaching programmes, delivering weekly sessions as well as providing 1:2:1 coaching. She successfully trains juniors through to masters athletes, carefully planning training sessions to meet each athlete’s individual needs, time constraints and motivations. On top of her many coaching commitments, Fiona is also a brilliant mentor to other coaches and many run leaders in the club; her enthusiasm and passion are infectious, inspiring everyone around her.
"I love working with my club, it is so rewarding. The athletes are so inspiring, they pick amazing races to do and it is great to see them come to fruition."
Runner up: Simon De Wilton (Taunton AC)
Simon coaches all age groups, from the junior athletes who are trying athletics for the first time through to his senior national and international athletes. He is always willing to offer support to his athletes and is on hand at competitions to encourage and focus. Simon keeps his training sessions fun and positive, always ending on a good throw so athletes leave happy. Not only does he encourage his athletes but also the other coaches, supporting parent helpers and older athletes to become Coaching Assistants.
Community Project of the year
Winner: Tavistock AC
The club have been working with Tavistock College to repair the damage caused by a major fire last summer. The club have managed to establish an agreement whereby the repairs are funded and a new track surface and markings have been done. The track is a vital part of the local community, used by local schools, fitness groups and also for monthly road races. The positivity shown by all to get the track back has shown a great sense of community spirit.
"It has taken our team eight years to get where we are and create a charity. The clubhouse is next, to give us that focal point as a club and a community."
Runner up: Clevedon AC
The club has supported their local community through getting involved in the foodbank run initiative. In total an incredible 120 kg worth of food items were donated, with more than 20 members supporting the run on the evening. The club received a letter of appreciation from the food bank highlighting that this had been an outstanding contribution. The initiative highlighted the generosity of the club’s members and the importance of giving back to their town.
"We will continue to do what we do and strive for other things, we are always looking for other charities and communities to support as much as possible."
Inspiring Official
Winner: Murray Croton (Devon County AA)
Murray is an experienced level 3 Field official who is vital to the running of competitions in Devon. Officials and athletes really appreciate the hard work and contribution that Murray has made. His knowledge and can-do attitude help ensure events run safely and efficiently. Murray happily shares his knowledge, mentoring many level 1 officials to progress to level 2. He maintains a professional, calm approach to challenging situations and uses his experience to come up with solutions.
Winner: Carol Strange (Bristol and West AC)
Carol is a level 3 Track Judge, level 2 Starter's Assistant, and level 1 Endurance official. Carol is an invaluable asset to the club, dedicating herself to volunteering at nearly every track and field match throughout the entire season for years. She has also played a mentorship role, guiding newly qualified officials on their development path and helping them advance their skills. Renowned for her calm and composed demeanour, Carol is always approachable and professional in her interactions with athletes, providing clear explanations when issues arise during a match.
Winner: Andy & Claudia Howse (Poole Runners)
Andy and Claudia are level 2 Field officials, travelling all around the South West to provide officiating support at all manner of track and field and cross-country events. They always turn up with a smile and encouraging words, especially for the younger athletes who they do their best to support and de-stress. They also inspire newer officials to get involved and progress along their pathway, constantly looking for ways to provide advice and guidance.
Newcomer to Volunteering
Winner: Charlotte Phillips (Poole Runners)
Charlotte’s enthusiasm for coaching junior athletes is infectious. As a recent competitive athlete, she understands the physical and mental challenges athletes face. She is highly committed, coaching three times a week, managing teams, developing websites, and supporting athletes at events. Her impact on hurdles and high jump coaching has seen these groups grow in size and has instilled a renewed passion by a wider group of athletes for these events. On committees Charlotte has encouraged inclusion and participation for all at grassroots level athletics.
"It was so important to me growing up to have that community and running club, it never mattered how good I was just as long as I tried my best. To be able to be part of that infrastructure now means so much to me."
Runner up: Katie Oliver (Avon Valley Runners)
Katie is an integral part of the team, volunteering in a number of club roles including deputy race director and assistant secretary. She has a keen eye for a good picture and has also taken charge of the club’s social media, ensuring regular posts on Instagram and Facebook to promote the club. She is great at understanding messages that need to be delivered, media relations and publicity. Katie is a real asset to the club and always friendly, adaptable and proactive.
"Our club is very inclusive and friendly, catering to all abilities. We have lots of schemes to help people who are new to running or trying to achieve their goals."
Contribution to Athletics and Running
Winner: Karen Robilliard (Cornwall AC)
Karen is the heartbeat of the club, dedicating hours upon hours of her time to coaching, officiating and managing athletes. She is responsible for everything from getting a team together to represent the club at regional league meetings through to managing social media accounts to help drive engagement. Karen has helped recruit many parents to get involved in officiating and coaching. Her laser focus on making sure the club is always looking for ways to grow is truly inspiring.
"It is important to get new blood in and get them doing a little bit, this will help the sport massively and is the only way forward."
Runner up: Sara Robert (Avon Valley Runners)
Sara played a vital role in Avon Valley Runners and the wider community, leaving a lasting positive impact. Sara's infectious enthusiasm and fun-loving nature made club sessions, social events, and running activities enjoyable for everyone. She also dedicated herself to being a mental health champion, openly discussing the topic and reducing stigma. Through her dedication to volunteering, she created opportunities for others to make a difference and actively engage in the community. She was a source of inspiration and support for those around her.
Sadly, Sara Robert unexpectedly passed away in March. She was a much loved volunteer and club member at Avon Valley Runners and she was highly thought of amongst the running community within Wiltshire. On behalf of EA we would like to extend our condolences to her family, friends and clubmates and we are delighted that her voluntary contributions have been recognised. Thank you Sara.
Services to Athletics and Running
Winner: David Cooke (Yeovil Olympiads AC)
Since joining Yeovil Olympiads (YOAC) in 1971, David has played a pivotal role in the development of athletics both in Somerset and across the South West. He was club captain for several years and has undertaken multiple roles across the Somerset County Athletic Association as well as the South West Regional Council. The difference he has made to our sport is immeasurable and he has achieved all this whilst being a really approachable and fantastic volunteer.
"I like watching athletics, I have been lucky enough to combine watching and helping at the same time."
Winner: Richard Llewellyn-Eaton (Taunton AC)
Richard’s work in Somerset athletics started in 1979 when he joined King’s College, where he continues to teach athletics and coach many athletes. He is currently the President of Taunton AC and has undertaken many other roles, including coach, secretary, chair, and more. Richard has been the driving force behind the club for decades. His wealth of knowledge and experience have helped grow the club, secure a permanent location and produce athletes that win international honours.
"I love working with the youngsters, I am still teaching and coaching because I enjoy it. I have been going for about 50 years and it is great fun."
Winner: Noel Frost (Yeovil Olympiads AC)
Noel has been involved in athletics for well over 50 years! He has been part of the Yeovil Olympiads Athletics Club for all of this time, undertaking roles including team manager, club chair and president. He is an inspiration to all those who meet him and has committed countless hours to our sport. Even as he approaches his 90th Birthday, he can still be found every week on the timekeepers stand at events in Yeovil and throughout the South West.
"It is the feeling of seeing youngsters start their career in athletics, it is the younger people that have always encouraged me rather than me encourage them."