Boat club coach gets lifetime achievement award in surprise ceremony

A coach from Windsor Boys' School Boat Club has received a sports lifetime achievement award by the Royal Borough.

Christopher Morrell has been coaching at the club, based at Windsor Leisure Centre, in Stovell Road, for 38 years and was nominated by parents of boat club members for his 'passion', 'energy' and 'dedication'.

A surprise ceremony was held for Mr Morrell, who was awarded an MBE in 2011, at the leisure centre on Friday, where he was presented with the award by the Deputy Mayor of Windsor and Maidenhead, Cllr James Evans.

Helen Preedy, Royal Borough sports development officer, said: "Christopher was really surprised and was a bit speechless but he praised a lot of coaches and member at the club.

"The good thing about the event was Christopher was able to receive the award at the club in front of the young people and coaches he has had an impact on."

The award was part of the Royal Borough’s arts and sports bursary awards, contributed to by the Louis Baylis Charitable Trust, which owns the Express.