[A] leading member of Bassenthwaite Sailing Club have received one of the Royal Yachting Association’s most prestigious awards from HRH The Princess Royal, President of the RYA. Theirs was among 58 awards presented in recognition of boating’s most dedicated volunteers.
Pauline and Dave Nicholson were selected as a winner by the RYA Honours and Awards Panel because of their outstanding contribution to the success of the sailing club.
“We were absolutely stunned when we were told of the RYA Volunteer Award, because our work at the club is just a labour of love. There must be many others in the club more deserving,” said Dave.
The citation says: ‘Pauline was Honorary Secretary for 11 years, supporting and administering business for five Commodores, and overseeing regatta week, two National School Sailing Association regattas and numerous major championships held at the club.
‘She has also served as the club’s Safeguarding Officer for the past seven years.
‘Dave has served as Vice Commodore, Commodore and Rear Commodore for six years, and brought his industrial management expertise to the roles, successfully overseeing the Bassweek Regatta and leading club activities.
‘He introduced a remediation plan following severe flooding in 2009 and 2015, and his hard work and attention to detail led to successful applications for flood recovery grants. He has also been Chair of the Grounds & Jetties Committee and Public Relations Officer.
RYA Director of Sport Development Alistair Dickson explains: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport. This has been an excellent opportunity to celebrate the fantastic work our volunteers do to support boating activity in all forms throughout the UK.
“All of the stories behind these special people have been truly inspiring to hear and it’s really an honour to be able to say thank you and celebrate their amazing achievements.”
Find out about Bassenthwaite Sailing Club at http://www.bassenthwaite-sc.org.uk
For more information about how to get out on the water in the North West region visit www.rya.org.uk/go/startboating
