Finalists Announced: BIS Volunteer Awards 2025
- britishiceskating
- 16 minutes ago
- 7 min read
We are thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 BIS Volunteer Awards!
Newly introduced to help recognise and reward the huge amount of hard work delivered by volunteers across the country in keeping ice skating events, clubs and communities running, the BIS Volunteer Awards are a chance to say thank you to some of our sport's most tireless champions.
Over 100 nominations were received across all categories, and we were delighted to see the wonderful words of gratitude and appreciation for so many individuals and clubs - shortlisting was a true challenge!
Below you can find all the category finalists - a big congratulations to everyone included. Award winners will be announced at a celebration event on the 29th November - watch this space or keep an eye on socials for the announcements!
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
TONY RADFORD
“He is always ready to give a helping hand and always strives for a job well done.” Tony’s dedication as a volunteer has been invaluable to countless skating events across the UK. Filling multiple roles with reliability and enthusiasm, he ensures competitions run smoothly and skaters can perform with confidence. His professionalism, positivity, and willingness to step in wherever needed make him an essential part of the sport’s success and a truly deserving nominee.
SARA THOMSON
“Sara has brought positivity to what was a difficult time for all of the young skaters who lost their ice when Ayr Ice Rink sadly closed.” As Club Secretary of Magnum Figure Skating Club, Sara’s hard work and creativity have united her community. From organising Christmas shows and family sessions to revitalising the club with the BIS Skate UK programme, she has brought joy, purpose, and connection to skaters and families-helping the club thrive against all odds.
SUE TWEDDELL
“A tireless advocate for inclusion and accessibility in figure skating.” Sue has been the driving force behind Whitley Bay Ice Skating Club for over 25 years, dedicating countless hours to supporting skaters, officials, and the wider community. As a judge, mentor, organiser, and administrator, she brings kindness, professionalism, and passion to everything she does. Her selfless commitment has inspired generations, making Sue a true role model and a cornerstone of British skating.
COMPETITION CHAMPION AWARD
WENDY CHERRY
"A genuinely lovely, caring and kind-hearted person. Her ability to coordinate every detail promptly and with precision is nothing short of remarkable.”
Wendy has been instrumental in revitalising the figure skating community at Oxford Ice Rink since 2020. As lead organiser of the Oxford Open in 2023, 2024, and 2026, she has guided these IJS events to great success and financial stability. Always humble, Wendy credits her team but remains the driving force behind their achievements-her leadership, persistence, and care have made a lasting impact on Oxford skating.
FELICITY KITCHING
"Fliss’s contribution goes far beyond the hours she gives; she embodies the spirit of volunteering.”
Fliss has been a key volunteer coordinator for major synchro events since 2016, including the Britannia Cup and the Junior World Synchronized Skating Championships in Nottingham. Her calm professionalism, meticulous organisation, and welcoming approach ensure events run seamlessly. Fliss’s dedication behind the scenes has supported athletes, officials, and volunteers alike, making her an invaluable part of the British synchro skating community.
TINA NOBLE
“A true leader and ambassador for the sport.”
Tina Noble has been a cornerstone of British Ice Skating for over 40 years, having coordinated and supported volunteers across hundreds of events-from grassroots competitions to ISU Championships. Her tireless dedication, experience, and generosity of spirit have made her integral to the success of Short Track, Figure, and Synchro skating. Tina’s legacy of commitment and care continues to inspire everyone she works with.
COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD
DAVID GIBB
“He is forever putting a smile on everyone’s faces.”
David is a much-loved event announcer whose enthusiasm and positivity lift every competition. Always on hand to help, he brings energy, humour, and encouragement to athletes, coaches, and spectators alike. His attention to detail and dedication ensure every skater is recognised and celebrated. David’s warmth and professionalism make him an invaluable part of the event team and a true asset to British Ice Skating.
BECKY SMITH
“She continually goes above and beyond.”
Becky has dedicated over a decade to coordinating team events and organising her club’s annual Christmas Show, creating music, choreography, and scripts for around 60 skaters of all ages. She gives up countless hours of her own time to ensure every event runs smoothly and every skater feels included. Becky continually goes above and beyond, bringing joy, creativity, and community spirit to everything she does.
CLUB CHAMPION AWARD
WENDY CHERRY
“A genuinely lovely, caring and kind-hearted person. Her ability to coordinate every detail promptly and with precision is nothing short of remarkable.”
Wendy has shown selfless and resolute leadership in revitalising Oxford School of Skating since 2020. She has led the successful relaunch of the Oxford Open, strengthened the club’s finances, and supported the development of new volunteers and skaters. Through her organisation, mentorship, and vision, Wendy has built a strong, sustainable future for Oxford’s skating community-embodying what it means to be a true Club Champion.
MALCOLM ROBINSON
“Without Malcolm, Cambridge Arrows Short Track would not exist.”
As safety steward and equipment lead, Malcolm has been instrumental in establishing and maintaining the club since its creation. His commitment to managing essential safety gear, supporting training sessions, and ensuring the smooth running of practices has made him indispensable. Always reliable and dedicated, Malcolm’s behind-the-scenes efforts keep the club thriving and skaters safe every week.
LISA WALKER
“Her passion, reliability, and unwavering dedication make her an invaluable part of both the club and the wider NSSA community.”
A long-standing volunteer with the Nottingham Synchronized Skating Academy, Lisa has shown exceptional leadership and commitment throughout her eight years of service, five of them as Club Chair. She plays a vital role in overseeing the club’s day-to-day operations and supporting the coaching team. Lisa’s dedication, positivity, and hands-on approach have been key to the club’s continued growth and success.
INCLUSION CHAMPION AWARD
SARAH CARTER
“Sara has helped to shape a culture of acceptance, belonging, and respect.”
Sarah is recognised for her unwavering commitment to making British Ice Skating a more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming community. Through her volunteer work, she has created opportunities for underrepresented groups and inspired others to follow her lead. Her dedication has helped shape a culture of belonging and respect-ensuring everyone, regardless of background or ability, feels they have a place both on and off the ice.
ANNIE HODGSON
“She really is a champion for inclusion.”
Annie has volunteered with SPICE for over 15 years, coaching, choreographing, and designing inclusive programmes that celebrate every skater’s individuality. She writes routines, creates costumes suited to each skater’s age and ability, and gives countless hours of her time, all while caring for her young family. Annie’s creativity, compassion, and long-standing dedication make her an exceptional advocate for inclusion and an inspiration to the skating community.
MICHELLE MILLS
“We wouldn’t be a team without her.”
As Team Manager for Bradford’s inclusive synchro team, Ice Diamonds, Michelle ensures every skater feels valued, supported, and included. Her understanding, patience, and commitment go far beyond administration - she listens, encourages, and makes sure no one is ever left behind. Michelle’s care and leadership have helped build a team culture based on respect, confidence, and belonging, embodying true inclusion in action.
INSPIRATIONAL VOLUNTEER AWARD
PENELOPE CURRALL
“A shining star showing everyone that we can all play a part in helping others overcome difficulties to learn something new and have fun along the way.”
At just seven years old, Penny is already making a remarkable impact as a volunteer at SPICE skating sessions. Her enthusiasm, empathy, and love for skating inspire everyone she meets. Penny’s dedication each Sunday shows maturity beyond her years and embodies the spirit of kindness, inclusion, and joy that makes our skating community so special.
JOHN DONNELLY
“He has helped create a culture of support, respect, and learning that will endure for generations.”
John’s contributions to implementing the International Judging System (IJS) across the UK have transformed British skating. His expertise, patience, and unwavering dedication have helped ensure fairer judging and stronger development for skaters nationwide. Always calm, kind, and professional, John’s influence extends far beyond the technical-he inspires everyone around him with his loyalty, humility, and passion for the sport.
SARA THOMSON
“She has such a brilliant work ethic and never complains or asks for any recognition for her achievements yet she so deserves it.”
Sara’s tireless dedication to Magnum Figure Skating Club continues to inspire everyone around her. Balancing family, work, and personal challenges, she still finds time to lead major events like the Magnum Open with care and professionalism. Her positivity, selflessness, and commitment to making skating enjoyable for all have uplifted her community and set a powerful example of quiet, determined leadership.
CLUB OF THE YEAR
DEESIDE SYNCHRO CLUB
“Skating is more than just a sport to us - it’s a place for growth, teamwork, and belonging.”
Deeside Synchro Club has shown outstanding commitment to inclusion and community. Since returning from a long rink closure, they’ve grown from one team to five, including Wales’ first inclusive synchro team and over 90 members. The club provides a supportive, respectful environment where skaters facing challenging circumstances can thrive, build friendships, and grow in confidence.
LEE VALLEY LONDON SKATING CLUB
“Members consistently highlight the friendships, confidence, and life skills gained through the club alongside their sporting successes.”
Lee Valley is a welcoming, inclusive club that places its skaters at the heart of everything it does. The coaching team nurtures confidence and passion, helping members develop both as athletes and individuals. Their positive, family-like culture empowers skaters to support one another and achieve their best, creating an environment where everyone feels they truly belong.
SPICE
“It is such a special club and we are so lucky to have this in our rink at Slough.”
SPICE embodies the true spirit of inclusion, bringing together skaters of all abilities in a warm, family atmosphere. Loved by skaters, families, and volunteers alike, the club creates joy, connection, and confidence on and off the ice. Every session celebrates belonging, fun, and progress-making SPICE a shining example of what community skating can achieve.
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