A DEDICATED member of the Shropshire Sailing Club, based near Ellesmere, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the sport with an award presented by The Princess Royal.
John Ridgers was among 81 volunteers from across the UK honoured in this year’s awards by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).
The awards were presented by Princess Anne, President of the RYA, at the Grade II-listed One Great George Street in London.
John, who lives in Oswestry, was recognised for Lifetime Commitment within the RYA Community Awards category for people supporting the grassroots of the sport.
He said: “When the email dropped into my inbox it was a real ‘what the...’ moment and a very pleasant surprise that people had taken the time to do this.
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“What makes this recognition all the more special is that the supporting words presented to the RYA for consideration came from my friends at Shropshire SC.”
John became Commodore of Shropshire Sailing Club as it emerged from Covid restrictions and his powers of persuasion, sense of humour and clarity of argument made important decisions easier to agree.
His leadership also resulted in a revitalised racing programme and an expanded training fleet.
In its citation for the award, the club added: “John’s passion for bringing sailing opportunities to young and mature people never falters.
“He encourages people to learn, gives up his time to help them, and supports young people through school experiences and volunteering so that they are able to become instructors themselves and also learn to race.”
The club’s nomination for the award was submitted by Commodore Ian Johnson, Vice Commodore Alison Eady and Membership Secretary Colin Smith.
John learnt to sail on the Norfolk Broads aged 13 then continued sailing in Leicestershire and for the last 30 years in Shropshire.
He said: “I have been given opportunities and experiences by others that will stay with me for the rest of my life.
“So sharing my time, knowledge and skills with so many wonderful people along the way makes volunteering a natural give-back into the sport I love.
RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe MBE said: “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.
“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.”
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