Services to Athletics or Running Award

Winner: Paul Sanderson – Telford AC (West Midlands region)

Paul Sanderson of Telford Athletics Club is the winner of the National Volunteer Awards Services to Athletics Award. A founder of the club, Paul has been the club secretary since the club started in 1976 and he has been key in securing improvements to the track. Paul has been a driving force locally in promoting the sport and bringing people who share his passion for athletics to the club. His tireless work has not only impacted the sport and left a legacy at the club and in the community, but it has touched and improved people’s lives in many ways. As a product of his dedication to his work, people have had the opportunity to get involved, make friends, try new things, compete, with some even making it to the national team and becoming Olympians. Paul has encouraged and supported many volunteers to get involved and always made sure that their contribution is recognised and appreciated. If there is a problem that needs sorting, Paul would do his best to sort it, however big or small. He does this in his own special quiet way, never talking about the hard work he does and always putting the club first.