Volunteer Awards evening 2025: South East

This weekend, it was also the turn of the South East for the latest instalment of the Regional Volunteer Awards.

It was a wonderful ceremony held at Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking, celebrating the outstanding contributions volunteers from across the region. A huge congratulations to all of the nominees and winners - let's meet them!

Club Volunteer of the year

Winner: Annalise Dobson

The winner of Club Volunteer of the Year in the South East Region is Annalise Dobson—a truly exceptional individual whose tireless dedication to Radley AC and the wider athletics community is nothing short of inspiring. Whether welcoming new athletes, managing fixtures, organising events, or stepping in to fill vital roles, Annalise does it all with warmth, humility and unwavering commitment. Her impact spans every corner of the club—from admin to officiating, from junior teams to county championships. She is the heartbeat of her club, a role model to many, and a shining example of the power of volunteering in our sport.

Club of the year

Winner: Fareham Running Club

Over the last 12 months, this club have supported our National Mental Health Programme, and they have also launched a new 'Rachel's Legacy' incentive, honouring the memory of one of their former Run Leaders by gifting a Leadership in Running Fitness qualification to club members who want to step up to leadership.

Their Foodbank Run has reached more people this year and donated more food than any previous year.

Runner up: Liss Runners

The runner-up for Club of the Year in the South East Region is Liss Runners - a small village club with a mighty impact. This year has marked a period of remarkable growth, with membership rising to 160 and a renewed focus on inclusivity and community. Their triumph in the Southern Cross Country League, the first in nearly two decades, reflects their strength and team spirit. From road and trail to ultra running, their members continue to excel. With strong links to parkrun, a welcoming ethos, and exciting plans to engage younger runners, Liss Runners exemplifies what it means to be inclusive, ambitious, and community-driven.

Coach of the year

Winner: Paula Williams

The winner of Coach of the Year in the South East Region is Paula Williams - a truly exceptional leader whose impact reaches far beyond the track. In the past year, she’s coached athletes to some impressive marathon times, launched a successful Couch to 5k programme, and supported runners of every ability with unwavering care. Her leadership spans two clubs, including Holly Hill Runners, and she’s built a thriving, inclusive training environment through thoughtful planning, regular leader meetings, and community-wide sessions. Paula’s dedication, adaptability, and belief in others have helped runners achieve goals they never thought possible.

Runner up: Bronwin Carter

The runner-up for Coach of the Year in the South East Region is Bronwin Carter—a coach whose passion, resilience, and care are truly extraordinary. A 13-time world weightlifting champion and recipient of the British Empire Medal, Bronwin brings unmatched experience and heart to every session. Her dedication never wavers—whether coaching through rain, snow, or personal recovery from hip replacements and a stroke. She tailors training to each athlete’s needs, builds confidence, and inspires belief. From warm weather camps to elite competitions, Bronwin is more than a coach—she’s a role model, a mentor, and the beating heart of her athletics community.

Community Project of the year

Winner: Thanet AC - Project AFC

Through Project AFC, Thanet AC celebrated the fact that they have serving members of the military, reservists and also veterans and their families in their club, and recognised the value their club has to their community and local area. The club entered into conversations with the Ministry of Defence and have recently signed the Armed Forces Covenant, working out exactly how they were going to help their community. The club offer reduced rates of membership and additional support to members of the armed forces, making sure that their financial constraints aren't a barrier to coming into the club and participating in the joy of athletics. The club are playing a key part in the Invictus Games, and were recently recognised with a bronze award for their contribution by the Armed Forces community. Now, their project is our Club of the Year in the South East region!

Runner up: Sherfield Park Runners

The runner-up for Community Project of the Year in the South East Region is Sherfield Park Runners, whose outstanding commitment to inclusion and community support has made a lasting impact. In 2024 and 2025, the club launched two Couch to 5K programmes, welcoming over 55 new runners and creating a truly supportive environment for all abilities. Alongside this, their food bank runs brought families together to support those facing hardship—showing how running can unite people for a greater cause. With passionate leadership from Matt, Louise and Keith, and incredible volunteer support, Sherfield Park Runners have built a club that feels like family.

Inspiring Official

Paul Wood

The winner of Inspiring Official of the Year in the South East Region is Paul Wood—a true pillar of the road running community. With over 35 years of service, Paul has officiated, measured, adjudicated and mentored across hundreds of events, including the London Marathon and over 950 licensed races in 2025 alone. His leadership, from chairing BARR and the SE licensing panel to co-authoring the EA Race Directors Handbook, has raised standards nationwide. Paul’s ‘can do’ approach brought back safe, licensed club relays after a five-year break, and his tireless dedication continues to shape the future of our sport. A full-time volunteer, and a full-time inspiration.

Helen Apsey

Another winner of Inspiring Official of the Year in the South East Region is Helen Apsey, a Level 3 Field Judge whose dedication and warmth have made a lasting impact across all levels of the sport. Since 2011, Helen has officiated at everything from school meets to international events, always bringing professionalism and compassion. Her tireless advocacy for the development of officials, hands-on mentorship, and ability to guide others with clarity and kindness have empowered countless individuals. Helen’s calm, respectful approach fosters trust and growth, and her unwavering commitment continues to shape a more inclusive and confident officiating community..

Newcomer to Volunteering

Winner: Tammi Williams

The winner of New Volunteer of the Year in the South East Region is Tammi Williams—a transformative force at Harwell Harriers. In just one year, Tammi has modernised club operations, led our most successful Beginners programme, and built a stronger, more inclusive community. Her IT and communications skills have lightened the load for coaches and kept members informed and engaged. But it’s her warmth, resilience, and instinct for connection that truly set her apart. Even while recovering from injury, Tammi never stopped showing up—with humour, humility and home-baked treats. She’s a quiet leader whose impact will be felt for years to come.

Runner up: Tanya Steven

The runner-up for New Volunteer of the Year in the South East Region is Tanya Stevens—a calm, committed and quietly brilliant force behind the scenes at City of Portsmouth AC. Since joining in 2021, Tanya has transformed club operations, taking on roles as Membership Secretary and Club Secretary, all while raising five children and working full-time. From building a new website to aligning social media with club values, organising events and supporting coaches, Tanya’s dedication is tireless. Her patience, persistence and leadership have made her a go-to figure for athletes, parents and committee members alike. The club simply wouldn’t run the same without her.

Services to Athletics and Running

Malcolm Price

One winner of the Services to Athletics award in the South East Region is Malcolm Price, whose extraordinary contribution spans over four decades of tireless service. From shaping Southampton AC to founding the RR10 and CC6 cross-country leagues, Malcolm has built inclusive, competitive platforms that have welcomed tens of thousands of runners. As Chair of the Hampshire Road Race League and long-time Race Director of the Eastleigh 10K, his leadership has elevated race standards while keeping community at the heart. Humble, knowledgeable, and always ready to help, Malcolm’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Hampshire running.

Irene Speller

Our second winner of Services to Athletics award in the South East Region is Irene Speller, whose tireless dedication over four decades has shaped the success and spirit of WSEH. From athlete to Team Director, Irene has managed countless teams and leagues—often simultaneously—while championing the women’s section and guiding it to national success. Her leadership has extended to committee roles across SWAL, SAL, NAL and Alder Valley, where she continues to drive development and opportunity. Whether organising matches, mentoring volunteers, or fielding questions in the clubhouse, Irene’s commitment, care and determination have empowered thousands and helped keep the sport in our region thriving.

Mark Taylor

Our other winner of the Services to Athletics award in the South East Region is Mark Taylor, whose remarkable contribution spans over three decades with Tunbridge Wells Harriers. From coaching and publicity to race adjudication and directing the Tunbridge Wells Half Marathon—raising over £150,000 for local causes—Mark’s impact is both deep and wide-reaching. His calm leadership, technical expertise, and tireless mentoring have shaped safe, inclusive events and inspired countless volunteers. Whether guiding new athletes or supporting race organisers, Mark’s generosity and dedication have built lasting community bonds and elevated grassroots athletics. He is a true champion of the sport and its people.