Sea Cadet volunteer Samantha Green from Northampton Sea Cadets has been awarded a special  RYA Youth Award for her work in encouraging young people onto the water. Sam has dedicated 1000 training hours to support the young cadets and under her guidance the club has trained two new dinghy instructors.

Sam says: "It feels such a great privilege to be part of the day and to be recognised along with the other volunteers. The thing I love about my work is seeing people progressing with the sport whether it is young kids or instructors."

The award was presented by HRH The Princess Royal last week (Thursday 18 November) and Sam is one of 44 volunteers recognised for their outstanding achievements and dedication.

"The RYA Awards and Community Awards acknowledge the importance of volunteers within the sailing and boating communities. They recognise the outstanding contributions, time, effort and experience that these individuals have made to making it possible for others to enjoy boating and sailing, from establishing clubs, committee participation, to boat maintenance and training." Jackie Bennetts, Volunteer Development Officer explains.

Sarah Treseder, RYA Chief Executive says “The RYA is delighted to make these awards in recognition of the enthusiasm, promotion of our sport and many years’ contribution to the sailing scene that these volunteers have provided. The 44 RYA winners are an inspiration to us all and it is my pleasure to recognise and celebrate their hard work and dedication.”