HRH The Princess Royal Honours Norfolk Sailing Volunteer

A Norfolk sailing volunteer has been presented with a prestigious national award by HRH the Princess Royal, president of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), in recognition of their exceptional generosity and commitment to the sport at grassroots level.
06 Dec 21
Anne Wagstaff receiving RYA Volunteer Award from HRH The Princess Royal

Horning Sailing Club’s Anne Wagstaff received an Outstanding Contribution Award in recognitions of her contribution to club life at the RYA’s annual awards held at One Great George Street, London on Friday 19 November.

Since becoming Club Secretary in 2008, Anne has been the enthusiastic, administrative backbone of Horning Sailing Club. As the longest-standing member in an officer role, she has supported 13 Commodores during that time, and carries out her role with great efficiency and exceptional organisational skills. She has also taken on organising the duty rota, and supports the development of the Club in many ways. 

Anne said: “I had a fantastic day, the RYA looked after everyone receiving awards so well, they made us all feel very special. We were given a beautiful lunch in very glamorous surroundings, and, of course, the highlight was accepting the award from HRH Princess Anne, and having the chance to chat to her afterwards. Having now had time to read the amazing citations of others who were honoured, I feel privileged to have been selected to be in such company, and would like to thank everyone in Horning Sailing Club for their support, especially those who were involved in my nomination.” 

Rob Clark, RYA Director of Sport Development, said: “2021 has been another challenging year for sailing organisations with outdoor activity restarting and restrictions slowly lifting. More than ever volunteers are the backbone of our clubs and the wider boating community, and every single award winner has made an impact by sacrificing their time and expertise so others can enjoy being on the water. It’s a pleasure to recognise their achievements”.

The RYA is boating’s national governing body and the Volunteer Awards recognise the outstanding contribution made by volunteers throughout the UK. Not only rewarding the longest-standing volunteers but also families, committed youngsters and most importantly, those that have had an impact.