Prestigious award for Himley Hall Sailing Club volunteer

Ian Cowdale, who has been Rear Commodore on the committee at Himley Hall Sailing Club since 2011, received an RYA Community Award for Outstanding Contribution.

The RYA Volunteer Awards celebrate the exceptional commitment of those who give their time to support boating.

Ian's duties at the club include preparing the sailing calendar for the year and organising race officers and safety boat operators.

He’s also taken on responsibility for maintaining equipment and organising the club trophies for its annual awards.

Boats on the lake at Himley Hall. Pic - Sarah Bonnar (Image: Sarah Bonnar)

A trustee of the club, Ian is a signatory on the club’s bank accounts and occasionally acts as unofficial assistant treasurer and he's regarded as the “go-to member for advice”.

Nominating him for the RYA Volunteer Award, Commodore Alan Dean said: “If a job needs doing, particularly if it is one that doesn’t neatly fall to someone else, Ian will be found doing it. He works quietly and patiently and gives up a vast amount of his time to keep everyone sailing and competing. It is a testament to his quiet efficiency that his efforts often go under the radar and some members are unaware of how much he does for the club.”

Ian Cowdale. Pic - Himley Hall Sailing Club (Image: Himley Hall Sailing Club)

Ian, a retired property manager and health and safety consultant from Wolverhampton, receives a keepsake certificate and silver frame for his dedication.

He said: “The award was a lovely surprise. It’s a small family club so everybody is your friend and you look to do your bit. I have a little more time than most and so thought I’d put it to good use. I’ve found volunteering for the club very rewarding.”

Visit hhsc.weebly.com to find out more about Himley Hall Sailing Club which is an RYA Recognised Training Centre.