City College Norwich lecturer Adam Williams who has been nominated for a Canoe England award. Photo: Supplied

A college lecturer has been nominated for a top award in recognition of his contributions to canoeing.

Adam Williams, pictured, has been put forward for an award in the education category of Canoe England’s annual volunteer and recognition awards.

The nomination is particularly special for the City College Norwich course leader after he introduced paddlesport to the outdoor adventure curriculum in 2007.

Mr Williams, who has competed in paddlesport for Great Britain, said: “It means a huge amount to get the recognition of being nominated for an award like this. I’ve had the biggest smile on my face ever since finding out about the nomination.

“There are lots of opportunities for getting involved in paddlesport in Norfolk. It’s great that so many young people are taking part in the sport and that here at the college we are able to provide fully-trained canoe instructors to work in the industry.

“City College Norwich has been extremely supportive of what we have been trying to achieve and I would like to thank the college for its support.”

Students on the BTEC extended diploma in sport (outdoor adventure) are given opportunities to gain nationally-recognised instructor qualifications in a range of outdoor activities, including paddlesport, mountain biking and climbing.

This summer, 28 out of the 32 students who completed the course went on to jobs at outdoor activity centres – both locally in Norfolk, but also as far afield as Canada. The Canoe England volunteer and recognition awards, now in their sixth year, celebrate the contributions of those who give their time and efforts to support canoeing in any role, whether in a club, centre, committee or at an event.

The winners of this year’s awards will be announced at Canoe England’s Regional and National Canoe England Volunteer Awards, sponsored by Towergate Mardon, at Eastwood Hall in Nottingham October 27.

Sue Hornby, Canoe England director of development, said: “This event is a perfect opportunity to publicly recognise and celebrate the work that is being done, so often, by unsung heroes like Adam Williams.”

Do you know someone who has won national recognition? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326.