DEDICATED volunteers from across the UK had their endeavours recognised by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at the annual RYA Volunteer Awards in London.

They included Abby West, a young sailor from Swanmore, near Bishops Waltham.

Abby was nominated for an RYA Community Youth Award in recognition of her commitment to Hill Head Sailing Club.

She joined in 2008 and has since quickly progressed.

Within a year Abby was helping to teach and encourage other novice sailors, both junior and adults.

She became a Dinghy Instructor and gained her Safety Boat qualification in 2014.

A total of 53 awards were bestowed upon volunteers from across the UK, recognising their exceptional generosity and dedication to boating.

Abby said: “The awards ceremony was fantastic – it was a privilege to have the opportunity to meet and be among so many amazing people.

“Some of their achievements were unbelievable and it really motivated me to continue my involvement.”

The awards ceremony and luncheon was held at One Great George Street, Westminster, where each award winner was presented with a commemorative medallion and certificate.

RYA Sport Development Manager Duncan Truswell said: “The RYA Volunteer Awards are our opportunity to say thank you – on behalf of clubs and associations that affiliate to the RYA – to volunteers, the people that really make a difference to help people get afloat... for the commitment they make to the sport to help people get afloat safely and enjoyably.”