A volunteer from Furzedown United Football Club was honoured in London with a prestigious national award, presented by His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester.

Morris Nelson received his honour from the Torch Trophy Trust, a charity which supports and recognises sports volunteers across the UK. He was nominated by Get Out Get Active for his exceptional service to the sport and the local community, which has included:

• Founding Furzedown United in 2011;
• Helping 250 youngsters become more active;
• Becoming an outstanding community mentor.

England great Sir Bobby Charlton CBE, President of the Trust, was also on hand at the ceremony at the Army and Navy Club in London and had praise for the local prize-winner.

“Without people like Morris, sport simply wouldn’t exist. We’re very lucky in this country to have an army of volunteers but these awards are given to only a handful of people each year. They are in recognition of being one of our most devoted sports volunteers, so each of our winners has my personal thanks and my appreciation.”

The Duke of Gloucester, who presented the awards, said he believed that award-winners were also role-models for those around them.

“Volunteering is the lifeblood of the United Kingdom and it’s an honour to reward people who give up so much of their time and their energy for others. I hope they act as an inspiration to the people around them.”

The Torch Trophy Trust was founded in 1962 by the late Commander Bill Collins RN, then honorary secretary of the Amateur Athletic Association.

It exists to encourage, reward and recognise the UK’s three million sports volunteers. The Trust’s awards are unique in acknowledging the breadth of the contribution of volunteers in sport, something which has been at the heart of its mission since it was founded 56 years ago.  The Trust is supported by Daks of London.