Volunteer David Collins dedicated his Alfred H Turner Award to his family for putting up with his many absences while on poolside.

He received the award from Swim England President Ian Mackenzie at the organisation’s AGM held at the Raddison Blu Hotel in Leicestershire.

David said: “I am so proud to receive this award.

David has played an integral part in aquatic sport in the north west region for more than 40 years.

After starting swimming at Urmston Swimming Club, he progressed to working as part of the poolside team delivering lessons.

He served on the committee and was treasurer for many years before being appointed club secretary for Flixton (formerly Urmston) Swimming Club.

David has also held numerous roles as part of his involvement with the Manchester and District Swimming and Water Polo League since the mid 1970s, including treasurer (1976-80), secretary (1982-1986) and president in 1982.

He has also been delegate for Flixton on the Central Lancashire Swimming and Water Polo Association.

As a teenager, David trained as a referee and has spent hundreds of hours on poolside in this role.

He is still very active in the counties and region today and can regularly be found officiating throughout the season at club galas, local associations plus county, regional and national championships.

David is also a member of the Swim England Judicial Appointments Panel and provides support and expertise to the Swim England North West Governance group on constitutional and governance matters.