CONGRATULATIONS were in order for West Devon sports volunteers who have more accolades to add to their collections following the Devon Sports Awards last week. The event, which was attended by many sporting personalities, was hosted by Active Devon and supported by West Devon Borough Council.
Dotty Allen, head coach of Tavistock Athletic Club and Bere Alston Trekkers, won the prestigious senior female coach of the year category for her outstanding dedication to the sport of running for all. Dotty was chosen for the award from many worthy nominations from all over the county.
West Devon were well represented, with five other West Devon volunteers amongst the finalists this year: Sheila Radgick from Tavistock Swimming Club, in the volunteer of the year category; Mark Wickett and Sue Hammond, both from Tavistock Community Football Club, in the senior Coach of the Year categories; and sisters Ruth and Anna Russell, from West Devon Skate Club, young female coach of the year.
The sporting awards are held annually to recognise the achievements and successes of the many coaches, teachers and volunteers who give their time freely for the good of sport in Devon.
Hannah Colston, West Devon Borough Council's sports development officer, said: 'I was incredibly humbled by the sheer talent, dedication and passion of our volunteers, coaches and officials from across the county and of course West Devon. We all know someone who gives up endless hours in the name of their sport or club and without these people recreational sport and physical activity just could not exist.'