Special Olympics GB was thrilled to see two of its most valued supporters recognised in The Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Elaine Daykin, the Founder of Special Olympics Redditch, received a British Empire Medal for voluntary service to Disability Sport, while

Valerie Hanover, the Founder of North Shropshire Special Olympics, also received a British Empire Medal for services to Sport and People with Disabilities.

Special Olympics GB is the largest registered charity providing year round sports training and competition opportunities for people with intellectual (learning) disabilities.  Almost 1.2 million people in the UK (2% of the population) have an intellectual disability.

Elaine explains that her son, Richard, 34, who has Down’s syndrome, was the inspiration for providing sports for people with intellectual disabilities.

Elaine said: “I feel very honoured.  Richard was a very active seven-year-old, he was big into football.  It was somewhere he could channel his energy into.”

Since setting up the club in the 1980’s Elaine has raised more than £250,000 in events she has organised to help Special Olympics Redditch, which uses 25 volunteers to help 50 people in weekly training and competitions.

Elaine added: “It was a big, big surprise when I got the letter. I kept reading the letter over and over again thinking is that really me?”

Val Hanover said: “I have always, and will always, be a strong supporter of Special Olympics.  The opportunities provided to children and adults with intellectual disabilities give them something to look forward to.  It gives them many opportunities to not only achieve in sport but also to make new friends. I am very proud to have received this award but am only one of the many volunteers who make the organisation so successful.”

Karen Wallin, Chief Executive of Special Olympics GB, said: “I am delighted that Val and Elaine have been recognised for the incredible contribution they have made to our charity and their communities.

“It’s a reflection of the positive influence and impact on the lives of a significant number of people through sport that Val and Elain have had over many years.”

“Special Olympics GB is the largest registered charity providing year round sports training and competition opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities and any community would be proud of Val and Elaine.  Their support, passion and drive are essential to the success of our movement.”