Kelvin German - a volunteer for Grafham Water Sailability - has received an award for his contribution to sailing and boating.

Kelvin and other volunteers were recognised by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, President of the Royal Yachting Association, at an awards ceremony in London.

The 2023 RYA Volunteer Awards were held on November 19.

Kelvin received an RYA Outstanding Contribution Award, which recognises the exceptional commitments made by individuals at the grassroots level of the sports and activities the RYA represents.

Kelvin has been an active volunteer and regular attender at Grafham Water Sailability for seven years.

On Thursday sailing days he fulfils many roles, helping to rig the Challenger trimarans, assisting as a ‘buddy’ for disabled sailors, or acting as helm on the Drascombe longboat with disabled sailors who enjoy being out on the water.

He also attends on Mondays as one of the maintenance volunteers, where he lends his hand to tasks such as building and boat maintenance, grass cutting and cleaning.

The clubs says: "He rarely misses any sessions, and has readily taken on roles within the club, including being one of the directors and trustees over a number of years.

"Kelvin is a very practical man who finds solutions to physical and mechanical problems. He is always willing to take on projects, including the fabrication of buddy seats that attach to the Challengers, a mobile trailer, and a hoist.

"He generously gives his time and donates equipment, which recently included another Challenger, saving the charity thousands of pounds.

Kelvin said of the award, “It was very nice to be put forward for this award, albeit a surprise, I enjoyed the day as I do helping at Sailability”.

Volunteers form the core of RYA and club initiatives, offering rewarding opportunities and assisting others to experience the water's numerous benefits.