Judy Burdass, from Octon, won the prestigious Service to Sport award for her work as the family coordinator for the 153 athletes and 65 coaches plus their supporters leading up to and at the 2007 Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai, China.

The accolade was handed to her as the npower Federation of Disability Sports Awards 2008 recognised the achievements of some of Yorkshire's finest disabled athletes at Leeds United Football Club.

A volunteer with Riding for the Disabled for over 30 years, secretary of the City of Hull Swimming Club since 2000 and Yorkshire and Humberside Special Olympics secretary between 1998 and 2006, Judy's tireless fund raising and campaigning has resulted in many sporting initiatives becoming reality.

Keith Thornton, who nominated Judy, says: "Judy is an enthusiastic person and, being involved in sport at local, regional and national level, is always working to make things happen and promote individual ability."

The npower Federation of Disability Sports Awards is now in its 15th year. It aims to raise the profile of disability sports ever higher and recognise the tremendous effort and commitment made by competitors of all ages, their coaches and supporters.

Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Leeds, Councillor Brian Cleasby and Mrs Jocelyn Cleasby and football referee, Uriah Rennie.

The 15 award categories recognised competitors of all ages and abilities, schools and teams along with those who have given their time and energy in a supporting role as volunteers and coaches.

Kevin Rodgers, community involvement executive for npower said: "Judy's enthusiasm and organisational ability is breathtaking. Disability sport relies heavily on the Judy Burdass' of the world and it's only right she should be recognised for her efforts."

Kevan Halliday-Brown, chief executive of the Federation of Disability Sports Organisations, said: "The FDSO aims to encourage as many local people with disabilities as possible to become involved in sport and active recreation and the npower Active programme helps us do this.

"It's Judy's approach that is so commendable – she treats people as individuals and is able to respond in a caring yet practical and supportive way, resulting in athletes producing some of their best performances at local, national and international competitions."
steve.petch@yrnltd.co.uk