AN inspirational woman from Ascot feels 'special and humbled' to have been honoured with a highly prestigious award for her work in teaching athletics.

Jill Wright who lives in Chavey Down was put forward for a BEM in the 2019 Queen's Birthday Honours list for her voluntary service to Athletics in Berkshire.

The 81-year-old has been a president of both Berkshire Schools Athletics Association and Berkshire County Athletics Association, as well as organising track and field events.

Jill said: "I feel very special and it is nice that people think I deserve it, as athletics has always been a part of my life and I have always been a sporty person.

"It gives me a sense of satisfaction, but it also brings good things for other people."

A coach at Bracknell Athletics Club put Jill up for the award after being previously taught by her when he was a student.

Currently she coaches his son at the same club.

Jill added: "The coach has a son who is a reasonable athlete and he said to me, I can not believe you're doing the same thing as my son all these years ago - so it is really sweet and nice."

The volunteer has been recognised for her work in implementing athletics coaching systems in schools throughout Berkshire and still judges and gives out medals at county events.

Her participation has also led Berkshire to be one of the most successful counties in England and English Schools championships where team awards are second nature.

She added: "I do not physically do much now apart from swimming as that keeps me going. But I love athletics and I will probably be quite emotional on the day, as I normally am when people are nice to me. "My brother is also going to be over the moon as I have had to keep quiet about this."

Jill will be field judging at the Berkshire County Athletics today.