PERSHORE-BORN Mark Dewdney has been named as Variety Disability Sports' 'Unsung Hero', winning the title at the awards ceremony in London. 

Dewdney was recognised for his selfless contribution to local, regional, national and international adaptive rowing as both a coach and mentor over the past 18 years. 

A coach/mentor of adaptive rowers at Stratford-upon-Avon Boat Club, Dewdney has also helped to develop the national strategy for adaptive rowing, and currently sits as the chair of The British Rowing Club Adaptive Group. 

Under his stewardship, Stratford's adaptive squad has grown to twenty athletes, with the recent addition of several junior rowers. 

"Adaptive rowing is very volunteer led with the need for a whole team of helpers to assist the adaptive athlete to boat, buddy row, provide safety launch cover, bank-based supervision and coaching," said Dewdney. "This doesn't just 'happen', it takes a lot of planning. 

"Each person has different capabilities and we all work together to find the best way to adapt the boat, equipment and training protocols to meet the individual athlete’s specific needs. The award is recognition of this great team effort. Access to disability sport is a great thing for so many, physically and mentally contributing to their overall wellbeing."

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Paul Stanton, president of Stratford-upon-Avon Boat Club, said: "Mark’s well-deserved award not only brings kudos to Mark himself but also to the club.

"Through Mark’s efforts and those of his adaptive squad, the club have high hopes of some athletes achieving possible Paralympic standard, in addition to those enjoying adaptive rowing for competitive as well recreational pleasure. We are very proud of Mark’s achievement."

Alongside Dewdney, one of his rowers also received an award for 'Rowing Despite Adversity' this week. 

Hattie Throssell - Stratford's longest serving adaptive athlete - received her award at the Adaptive Squad's Christmas Dinner. 

Dewdney said: "The club’s award for ‘Rowing Despite Adversity’ isn’t given lightly but the President and I were of one mind in the choice as Hattie’s true grit, determination and sheer ‘fight’ is humbling to see and an example to us all: a well deserved recipient."