Last year, a challenging time for the whole world and our county, the GBA Awards recognised the fantastic contribution of local individuals and organisations to the mental and physical wellbeing of Berkshire residents. The 'Berkshire physical activity lockdown hero', a campaign celebrating the 9^th GBA Awards' winners on BBC Radio Berkshire and social media, united residents, communities and activity providers around the joy and importance of physical activity and helped keep spirits high in the county during the winter lockdown.

This year, as we are recovering from the pandemic, the 10^th GBA Awards will continue recognising individuals and organisations that contributed to a healthier and more resilient Berkshire. There is one award category – the 'Berkshire physical activity hero'.

Roddy Slater

Dedicated Reading Athletics Coach and Raw Mentoring Owner, Roddy Slater, kept the club going during lockdown when he brought his sessions online and ran training days over Zoom. With a full-time job alongside, Roddy went above and beyond to stay committed to his coaching. Knowing how the group's mental health could be affected by the lockdown, he organised Zoom meetings with athletes he knew from his time competing, in order to gain insight for the club. He also arranged one to one calls for anyone who needed extra care regardless of whether or not it was training related, looking out for each and every member.

"He is able to make the training specific for each athlete and keeps us motivated, supporting us off the track too. He is patient with me when it comes to doing drills, especially with my disability" – Running Club Member