Amanda Wilkins is crowned the 'Shining Light' for Sussex
by Karenza Morton, RYA 19 Jul 2013 20:14 BST
16 July 2013
Amanda Wilkins is crowned the 'Shining Light' for Sussex © RYA
Novice sailor Amanda Wilkins from Newhaven has been honoured at a 'Shine A Light' Community Games relay event, for her commitment to volunteering.
Held at Bewl Water on 16 July, the Sussex event was Day 59 of a 70-day relay route across the country, retracing the route of last year's Olympic and Paralympic Torch relay.
Starting on 19 May in Land's End, Day 70 will mark the end of the relay at the Olympic Park, on 27 July, exactly one year on from London 2012.
Jointly hosted with neighbouring county Kent, the event saw teams from Active Sussex and Kent Sport set sail, and a commemorative Community Games jersey passed from 67-year-old Amanda to the Shining Light for Kent, Daniel Bromley, across the East Sussex/Kent border on Bewl Water. Amanda has perviously worked for the Sea Cadets.
Active Sussex chose Amanda as the Sussex Shining Light due to her active role in organising Community Games event to ensure a lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy – inspiring her hometown of Newhaven to unite through sporting activity.
She has also launched a 'Making Sport Happen' initiative, which has received full backing from Newhaven Town Council.
Amanda spoke of her reaction to being named the Shining Light for Sussex: "I was gobsmacked when I found out I'd won. I've always been enthusiastic and I don't let my age get in the way - the Olympics has changed my life by opening new doors for me."
Paul Rayner, Active Sussex Trustee and RYA South East committee member - who also acted as Skipper on the day - commented: "We're proud to be part of keeping the success of London 2012 alive in Sussex."
Delivered by the County Sports Partnership Network (CSPN) and the YMCA, and funded by the Social Action Fund, the Community Games relay highlights an outstanding bearer in each of the 70 locations to reflect the achievements of the 36,000 volunteers across the country who have helped bring the Olympic Legacy to life.
Both Active Sussex and Kent Sport saw a noticeable increase in the number of people motivated to take part and organise Community Games events following London 2012.