Northants man wins lifetime commitment award from Royal Yachting Association

An Irthlingborough man who volunteers at Cransley Sailing Club has been awarded a Lifetime Commitment Award from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).

John Linnell has been a club member and volunteer at Cransley Sailing Club for 25 years and was nominated for the award by his club.

John said: "I've always volunteered because I like to be busy and I find it rewarding. We have a super set of people at the club with lots of volunteers and all of the committee members.

"Like everything, it's a team effort, so on behalf of the team I’m very proud to receive this award."

Cransley Sailing Club said: "John is one of the unsung heroes of the club, working in the background to enable all members to enjoy club sailing.

"Whether on land, where he fixes and maintains equipment, or on water, where he reassures new sailors, encourages youngsters to crew with him to give them experience and lends a hand with safety boat cover, nothing seems too much trouble for him."

John is a mechanical engineer and has made sure that everything at the club with an engine is operational. He has also built pontoons, devised a solar-powered automated starting system for races, designed a weed cutter and his efforts gave members the ability to sail over larger areas of the reservoir.

The RYA Volunteer Awards has recognised 44 unsung heroes across the UK this year to acknowledge those who make an outstanding contribution to boating.

There is normally an awards ceremony in London but this year the awards have been presented to volunteers at their local sailing clubs or in online gatherings.

Sarah Treseder, RYA chief executive, said: "This year, more than ever before we have seen our club volunteers come together and work tirelessly to ensure members can continue to sail.

"The generosity and dedication of each of the RYA Volunteer Award recipients is simply outstanding and it's a pleasure to be able to recognise these winners through this award."

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