Swimmer gets Surrey sports honour

Louise Watkin won the award in memory of Michael Varah

A 16-year-old swimmer who won a silver and three bronze medals at the 2008 Paralympic Games has been named Surrey Young Sports Personality of the Year.

Louise Watkin, of Redhill and Reigate Swimming Club, picked up the award at the Surrey Sports Awards at Cobham Sports Club on Sunday night.

Louise, who has an upper limb disability, also trains with and competes against non-disabled swimmers.

Olympic canoeist Anna Hemmings was named Sports Personality of the Year.

Ms Hemmings, a member of Elmbridge Canoe Club, was part of Team GB during the summer in Beijing.

Sports Club of the Year was Oxshott Village Sports Club, also in Elmbridge.

The awards ceremony was hosted by BBC TV sports presenter John Inverdale and attended by more than 150 players, coaches, volunteers and dignitaries.

'Very proud'

"It was a fantastic evening," said Sarah Williams, chair of the organising committee.

"All the award winners... should be very proud of their achievements and efforts."

Miss Watkins was presented with her award by High Sheriff of Surrey, Sally Varah, who sponsored it in memory of her husband Michael, who died suddenly earlier this year.

Mrs Varah became High Sheriff in place of her husband, who had been nominated for the role for 2008/2009.

Mr Varah worked for 35 years in the criminal justice system and at the time of his retirement was the UK's longest serving Chief Officer in the (then) National Probation Service.

"Because of the difference that sport made to his own life, one of the main themes that Michael had planned for his year as High Sheriff was to encourage young people to engage in sport, in ways that build self esteem, realises potential and leads to healthy, fulfilled lives," she said.

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