A WEYMOUTH sailor is looking forward to being presented with one of the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA) most prestigious awards.

Alun Morgan has been recommended to receive an RYA Community Award for his commitment to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA).

He was nominated by the WPNSA and has successfully been recognised for the award by the RYA Honours and Awards Panel.

The accolade will be presented by HRH the Princess Royal, president of the RYA, at the association’s annual awards ceremony in London later this month.

Morgan first became involved with the WPNSA as a safety boat driver before becoming a course safety officer and then an event safety officer.

This is a very demanding role as he helps with event planning and volunteer coordination.

Alongside his busy schedule, he assists with volunteer safety boat training with Chesil Sailability.

Morgan has also brought knowledge and skills from being a fireman and has provided fire safety advice for the academy and run fire safety training drills.

Morgan is strongly supported in his volunteering role by his family.

His wife, Sue, also volunteers in countless roles at many events, as do other family members.

The commitment, dedication and time given by Morgan and his family to the WPNSA is exceptional and he is a very important member of the team and an inspiration to everyone.

“This award has come out of the blue,” he said. “I really appreciate the academy’s national recognition for the time and effort spent helping.

“I work alongside some great volunteers and meet inspirational people, without them it wouldn’t be half the fun.”

RYA sport development manager Duncan Truswell added: “The RYA Volunteer Awards are all about celebrating the commitment of the countless volunteers who do fantastic work to support boating in all its forms.

“These people are the lifeblood of our sport; they keep our sailing clubs, events and our organisations thriving and make it possible for others to get out on the water.”

For more information, visit rya.org.uk/go/RYAVolunteerAwards