A member of staff at North Tyneside Council’s leisure centres has received an award for his commitment to developing and delivering disability sport opportunities.
As part of Tyne & Wear Sport’s Pass on Your Passion campaign, Mark Thompson, a Leisure Assistant at The Parks, in North Shields, was presented with an award and trophy honouring the work he has done.
The campaign recognises great coaches in the region for their dedication and commitment to the sessions they run – citing the positive impact they have had on the people they coach.
Mark has been developing and delivering disability sports sessions for the centre since 2012, with a wide range of activities available such as archery, trampolining rebound therapy and boccia.
Cllr Sarah Day, cabinet member with responsibility for Sport and Leisure, said: “It is fantastic to see Mark getting the recognition he so greatly deserves for the amazing work he has done with the disability sports sessions.
“As a council, it is so important to us that everyone in North Tyneside has the opportunities in place to be active and these sessions provide them with that chance.”
David Marrin, Assistant Director at Tyne & Wear Sport (inactivity and inclusion), said: "The Pass on Your Passion scheme aims to recognise those individuals that work tirelessly to provide opportunities for people to become more active.
“Mark is an inspiration, providing a wide range of opportunities for people with disabilities to take part and we are very grateful for the contribution he makes"
Praised for his motivation and infectious enthusiasm, Mark has continued to look for ways to expand the centre’s disability programme.
North Tyneside Council’s leisure centres offer a wide range of facilities and activities for anyone to take part in, for people of all ages, regardless of any disabilities.
To find out more about sessions at any of North Tyneside Council’s leisure centres, email sport@jnorthtyneside.gov.uk, visit www.twitter.com/sportnt or www.facebook.com/sportnorthtyneside.
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