HOME

At training on the evening of 15th December, Jenny Ellis, Manager of Barclays Bank, Woodbridge presented Panthers' chairman, Mike Oakley, with a cheque for £1,000 payable to Orwell Panthers, a huge bottle of champagne and a beautiful silver medal to honour Mike as a Spaces for Sports, "Local Hero".

Jenny Ellis, Barclays Woodbridge presents Mike with a cheque for £1000

With the very generous Free Coaching Kit presented to Panthers by Barclays, was a nomination form for "Local unsung hero". Ann discussed matters with committee members and Mike's name was submitted as a possible candidate to recognise the time he has given to the Panthers and athletics in general. To Mike's surprise and embarrassment, he won the award and was delighted that the real gain was for his precious Panthers.

Ann also arranged a special presentation to Mike's wife, Sue, for supporting his involvement over the years. Sue received a magnificent bouquet of flowers from Club Captain, Andrew Brooks.

Andrew presents Sue with a beautiful bouquet

Mike said that he felt honoured but that he had already received his reward whenever he sees a Panther running, jumping or throwing. It is also immensely pleasing to see the look of delight on the faces of parents and grandparents whenever their "athletes" perform.

Orwell Panthers are extremely grateful to for their generosity and to Jenny Ellis for her kind words and her time to make the presentation.