The 2023 RYA Volunteer Awards were held on Friday 10 November at One Great George Street, with 81 accolades given this year in recognition of the outstanding dedication and commitment made by volunteers of all ages and from all corners of the UK.
Outstanding Contribution
Dave received an RYA Lifetime Commitment Award, which recognises the exceptional commitments made by individuals at the grassroots level of the sports and activities the RYA represents.
Dave has been volunteering with the Nancy Oldfield Trust for over 30 years and has been involved from the start. With his support the trust helps enable people who have disabilities, or who are disadvantaged in any way, to get out on the water on the Norfolk Broads in sailing boats, canoes, pedal boats,
paddleboards and motor cruisers.
The Trust’s longest serving volunteer, giving thousands of hours to visitors, he is a highly skilled motor cruiser and safety boat driver. He brings his friendly, calm, gentle and empathetic approach to everything he does and everyone he meets, always adaptable to quickly changing circumstances. He is constantly cheerful, has a very caring manner with all visitors, and makes sure that all the individuals, families, and carers he interacts with have a wonderful time on the water.
Dave’s quiet, unassuming, and unfailing commitment to the trust is truly remarkable and inspirational to those who work and volunteer with him.
RYA Director pays tribute
RYA Director of Sport Development Rob Clark paid tribute to the enormous impact that volunteers have in sailing and boating communities.
“It’s always so inspiring to hear of the amazing work that is happening every day, up and down the country, by volunteers right at the heart of our sport,” Rob explained.
“Whether it’s encouraging newcomers to give it a try, looking after facilities so people can get afloat safely, running weekend racing, or fundraising for equipment so more people can be introduced to the joys of being on the water – there really is a rewarding role for everyone in our communities, from teenager to octogenarian!”
Humbling achievements
“Our sport relies so much on the goodwill and skills of volunteers at every level, without whom the opportunities to get involved in boating would be greatly reduced,” said RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe MBE.
“They are very often the first point of contact for new participants across the nations and regions, and can help to motivate a lifetime’s interest, or inspire others to train for fulfilling careers across the marine industry.
“It’s so humbling to hear of the many examples of selfless commitment our award recipients have shown – in many cases spanning decades – and they represent many thousands more who give their time to support boating in whatever way, great or small. Our grateful thanks go to them all.”
Start your volunteering journey
Volunteers form the core of RYA and club initiatives, offering rewarding opportunities and assisting others to experience the water’s numerous benefits.
With various volunteering options available, dedicating even a small amount of your time can create a significant impact. Join us and make a difference today.
Find out more about volunteering.
The Nancy Oldfield Trust
Find out more about The Nancy Oldfield Trust – which provides a wide range of accessible boating activities on the Norfolk Broads.
For more information about how to get out on the water in the East Region, visit www.rya.org.uk/startboating.