Disability sport advocates awarded in New Year's Honours list

Congratulations to April Barrett, John Jenkins and Terry Parker, who have each been awarded an MBE in the New Year's Honours list 2015 for their services to disability sport.

Dwarf Sports Association UK board member April Barrett receives an MBE for her services to disability sport. Former EFDS Board member, April, has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about people with restricted growth conditions and their involvement in sport.

Commenting on her award, April said:

"I am so honoured and humbled to have been recommended for an MBE, Sport and the community have so enhanced and empowered mine and my children's lives to the full, I do so recommend getting involved to all."

John Jenkins, President of SportsAble has been awarded an MBE for his service to disability sport over the last 39 years. John has helped drive inclusive sport and social opportunities for disabled people since the club began in 1975. In his earlier years, John represented Great Britain at the 1984 Paralympic Games as a table tennis player. 

SportsAble Club Chairman, Vivienne Davies said:

"This award is truly deserved and long overdue. John has made an immense impact to so many people's lives, he is incredibly passionate about supporting and fundraising for SportsAble."

Terry Parker (pictured), a tennis coach from Gloucestershire has been awarded an MBE for his committment to transforming the lives of disabled people over the last three decades. Terry, now 76, began coaching in the 1970s and now he supports over 25 disabled people to play tennis every week in his local community.

On receiving his award, Terry said:

"When I opened the letter, I nearly dropped off my sesat it was that much of a shock. I had no idea I had been nominated, I still can't believe it."