Volunteers honoured at the Torch Trophy Trust Awards 2016, presented by HRH the Prince of Kent

Torch Trophy Trust 2016 ()

Volunteers in sport from across the UK, were recognised last week for their outstanding contribution to their local communities

Volunteers in sport from across the UK, were recognised last week for their outstanding contribution to their local communities. A total of 20 volunteers were presented with their award by HRH Prince Michael of Kent at the annual Torch Trophy Trust Awards.

Hosted at the Royal Army and Navy Club in London, the awards are unique in celebrating the importance of volunteers in sport – a role which often goes unnoticed. The Torch Trophy Trust exists to encourage, reward and recognise the three million people in the UK who devote their spare time to volunteer in sport, in their local community and provide more opportunities to get people active.

As a charity registered in the UK, the Torch Trophy Trust relies solely on donations from the public. At the heart of the Trust’s ethos is legacy – founded in 1962 and with the 1948 Olympic torch used as its symbol – the awards have recognised volunteers for over 53 years.

Former Trustee of the Torch Trophy Trust, Jimmy Hill was also honoured in memory of his contribution to football. Thriston Brady attended the awards ceremony to collect the award on behalf of Hill, he commented: “It has been a fantastic evening celebrating truly outstanding people. I’m privileged to pick up this award on behalf of Jimmy, with whom I know the awards were particularly important.”

Sir Bobby Charlton, Chairman of the Torch Trophy Trust commented: “It is hugely important to honour the incredible volunteers that make sport happen in our nation. Without their passion and generosity, we would see participation numbers fall. We are delighted to recognise and highlight the fantastic worked achieved by these volunteers, who demonstrate professionalism and desire to continue improving their activity.”

Find out more about the winners here.