A DEDICATED hockey coach has received a national accolade for inspiring people to play sport during the pandemic.

PE teacher Louise Broome has been recognised as a UK Sporting Hero in the UK Coaching Awards 2021.

Mrs Broome has taught at Wilmslow Preparatory School for 17 years and served as a hockey coach for 35 years.

Recognised for her dedication to coaching and development, she was one of only 25 coaches in the country to be bestowed with the impressive award.

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The coaches were nominated by the public for their innovations and achievements to keep people moving during the Covid-19 lockdowns.

A special momento was presented to each coach to mark the considerable difference they made to people's mental and physical wellbeing from Princess Anne, UK Coaching's royal patrol at a gala dinner.

Mrs Broome was thrilled to receive a royal seal of approval.

The UK Coaching Awards is one of the most prestigious awards within the coaching community and recognises the contribution coaches make in transforming lives in communities nationwide.

Mrs Broome, who is vice chairman and ladies club captain at Wilmslow Hockey Club, is overwhelmed to have received recognition.

She said: “I am so grateful to everyone who nominated me for the UK Sporting Hero Award.

"Being a coach, whether that’s at the club or with my wonderful pupils at school, is such a big part of my life. The last 18 months has been tough for us all, but this award has been a real silver lining.”

Bradley Lavagna-Slater, headteacher at Wilmslow Preparatory School, said: “Mrs Broome is a brilliant PE teacher and coach who makes classes for all of our pupils fun and engaging.

"We’d like to extend our congratulations to Mrs Broome who is so deserving of this award.”

Director of UK Coaching Emma Atkins said: “Many congratulations all our winners.

"We applaud your efforts and the role you played in your communities, boosting morale and lifting people’s moods in a completely alienating time.

“Helping people to use sport and physical activity positively through challenging times is a privilege and one which carries huge responsibilities and you took your duties seriously."