Colin Magee MBE

Colin Magee a sailing coach from Burbage was awarded an MBE at Windsor Castle by Princess Anne on the 13th of January.

Colin’s award is for nearly 60 years services to children and the disabled as a volunteer over 60 years.

Colin cofounded the Leicestershire Youth Sailing Association in 1967, bringing together children from disadvantaged backgrounds who could not afford to join private clubs. From small beginnings the Association grew to include the disabled, both children and adults, children with learning difficulties cadet groups and schools.. Over the years Colin has run the charity from Hinckley Wharf, Bosworth Waterpark and John Merrick’s Lake in Watermead country park where it still thrives today.

Thousands of young people have benefitted from Colin’s selfless commitment over the years and have progressed on to have careers of their own in the Royal Navy the merchant service and running sailing centres of their own.

Colin said this award is a great honour and is not just for him but all the hard working volunteers who keep the LRYSA running successfully today.

If anyone is interested in learning to sail or qualify as a power boat driver please contact Jill Magee on Hinckley 01455619347 or jill@lrysa.org.uk to book a course.