Sports Personality of the Year 2024: Jean Paton wins Unsung Hero award
Volunteer Jean Paton has been awarded the 2024 BBC Sports Personality Unsung Hero Award.
Joan, 90, dedicated the best part of forty years to Saltfields Sailing Club in Leamington, Hampshire.
She is a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) dinghy instructor.
Speaking to BBC One, Jean said of the children at the sailing club: “They’re friendly and it’s something they can do – it makes them happy.”
While at Salterns, Jean helped over 800 children learn to sail.
The club is run by children with adult support and operates as a not-for-profit organization, hosting ‘Moppy Camps’ (RYA accredited weekend sailing training) twice a year.
Payton has attended every camp since its inception 20 years ago and has taken on many roles that require not only sailing expertise but also leadership and the ability to inspire confidence in young sailors.
She was presented with the award by Britain’s most successful female Olympian, Dame Laura Kenny, and Radio 2’s Paddy McGuinness at the 71st BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards.
When asked what advice she would give to anyone considering becoming a volunteer, Jean added: “Just go for it. There’s always a kid out there who needs your abilities.”
“Children only have a few years before you can communicate with them.”
