Amber Valley & Erewash Athletic Club held its annual Celebration Night on Saturday 28th March at the Derby Conference Centre, welcoming approximately 120 athletes, coaches, volunteers and family members for an evening of recognition and celebration. The club was also pleased to welcome Councillor Paul Lobley and his wife, Janette Lobley, as guests for the evening.
The event provided an excellent opportunity to reflect on another successful year for the club, highlighting achievements across all age groups and disciplines. The venue offered a great setting for the evening, with attendees enjoying a range of facilities including a DJ, photobooth, catering, and a popular sweet bar, all of which contributed to a fantastic atmosphere throughout the night.
The awards presentation formed the centrepiece of the evening. The presentation opened with a reflection on the vital role of volunteers within the club, recognising the contribution of coaches, officials and helpers who enable the club to function week in, week out.
It was also noted that Alice Robinson has recently taken on the role of Officials Secretary, with a focus on encouraging more club members to become qualified officials, an important step in supporting the club’s continued growth.
The Recreation Group enjoyed a particularly strong year, with 12 athletes selected to represent Derbyshire at the Inter-Counties event in Grantham. The club also retained the Mini League overall title, underlining the strength and depth within the group.
The Coaches Awards followed, recognising athletes who consistently demonstrate a positive attitude, support others, and contribute to a strong training environment. Awards were presented to:
- Girls: April Malone, Grace Meehan, Thea King
- Boys: Reggie Taylor, Chris Maye, George Whittleton
The Rising Stars awards recognised emerging talent within the group. Harley Alldread was recognised for his strong all-round performances across multiple events, consistent contributions in competition, and excellent attitude in training. Eva Price received the girls’ award following an outstanding season, including selection for Derbyshire, excellent performances across track and field, and a record-breaking performance in the hi-stepper at Chesterfield, alongside an exceptional points contribution across Sportshall competitions.
Outstanding Achievement awards were then presented to Joseph Brackenbury and Florence Sibley, both of whom have delivered consistently high-level performances across a range of events. Both athletes represented Derbyshire at the Inter-Counties and demonstrated exceptional all-round ability.
A series of Specialist Session Coaches Awards highlighted the impact of coaching across different event groups, with several coaches sharing personal reflections on their award winners.
Bob Boyd highlighted Gabriel Parr’s journey within the club, noting that while he initially expected him to only stay for a short time, Gabriel has shown real perseverance to become a valued member of the group. His willingness to contribute across events, particularly in the throws, alongside his determination and occasional memorable moments, have made him a popular and respected athlete within the squad.
Alice Robinson recognised Sophie Humphrey for her consistent commitment to training and her outstanding attitude across all aspects of the throws programme. Sophie has trained regularly throughout the season and gives full effort in every session, whether focusing on throwing, mobility, or strength and conditioning. While sometimes lacking confidence in new drills, she approaches every challenge positively and is always willing to learn. Sophie made strong progress in the javelin last summer and is seen as an athlete with significant potential across multiple events.
Jayesh Dave spoke about Henry Jack’s significant development, praising his consistently positive attitude and work ethic in training. Henry has shown strong technical improvement, particularly in developing a more consistent stride pattern, and has made notable progress in his jumping, increasing his distances from over 4 metres to beyond 5 metres. He has also shown resilience in overcoming challenges away from training and continues to demonstrate strong potential.
Geoff Lowry recognised Joseph Brackenbury for his consistent effort and positive attitude within the group. He highlighted his improvement in sprinting, willingness to take on challenges in training, and enthusiasm each week. His performances in Sportshall competition were also noted, alongside how well he has settled into the group.
Sarah Turner recognised Alfie Ray for his perseverance and commitment, particularly in overcoming injury during the past year. Despite this, he continued to support sessions by helping coach others and offering encouragement to teammates. As he returned to training, he showed maturity in managing his recovery and continues to set a strong example with his energy and commitment.
Nisha Desai recognised Erin Beresford for her dedication to training and strong commitment to developing technically across sprint and long hurdles. Erin has shown excellent consistency in attendance, even when managing minor niggles, and continues to approach sessions with determination and a willingness to improve. Her training has translated into competitive success, including becoming Derbyshire County Champion and achieving the English National Championships qualifying standard, narrowly missing competition due to being on holiday. Erin has built a strong foundation and is well placed for further development this season.
Rich Woodward highlighted the difficulty in selecting a single recipient, given the consistent effort and positive attitude shown across the group throughout the winter months. The award was ultimately presented to Nicole Bonser, in recognition of her commitment to training, willingness to take on feedback, and clear progression in both confidence and performance. She was also praised for her support of other athletes within the group and for setting a strong example in sessions, with the award marking her first at the club.
Team Spirit awards celebrated athletes who have made a significant contribution to team competitions and club culture.
Leah Parkin (Upper YDL) was recognised for her commitment to competing in all matches, her willingness to step outside her comfort zone by taking on new events, and her determination to score valuable points for the club.
Marcus Parsons-Loades (Lower YDL) was recognised for his commitment to competing across all three matches during the season. A key member of the throws squad, he has shown a willingness to take on new challenges, including competing in the hammer for the first time. His efforts have led to strong performances, including achieving a Level 5 PB in the discus, and he continues to contribute positively to the team environment.
Bibi Mulholland (Heart of England League) was recognised for her growing confidence throughout the season and her willingness to compete across a variety of events in support of the team. She was also praised for her encouragement of teammates and her contribution beyond competition, including helping to raise funds for the club through badge-making and selling at events. Her positive attitude and commitment make her a valued member of Team AVEAC.
Charlie Yates (Nottingham Development League) was recognised for the enthusiasm and energy she brings to competitions, along with her unwavering support for her fellow AVEAC athletes. Her positive presence and sense of humour have made her a valued member of the team environment.
Esme Wainwright (Mini League) was recognised for her outstanding team spirit. She consistently supports and encourages her teammates, celebrating their successes and helping to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere within the team. Her enthusiasm and willingness to lift others play an important role in keeping the group motivated and united.
Cross Country awards were presented to Florence Sibley and Joseph Stimson in recognition of their performances during the cross country season. Florence was recognised for her outstanding consistency throughout the season, competing in more races than any other female athlete and delivering reliable performances across the series. Joseph was awarded for his positive attitude, competitive spirit, and determination during races, as well as his consistent focus and effort in training.
The evening also included the presentation of the 2025 Level 9 PB Award Winners, recognising athletes who have achieved outstanding personal best performances across multiple events:
- Summer Biggs – 100m, 200m, 60mH, Shot, Javelin, Long Jump, High Jump, Pentathlon
- Joe Moss – 60m, 100m, 200m, Shot, Discus, Long Jump, High Jump, Pentathlon
- Betsy Wilton – 100m, 200m, Triple Jump
- Madeleine Turner – 800m, 1,500m
- Alex Knibbs – 400m, 400mH
- Ben Pitts – High Jump
- Jessica Turner – 400m
These awards highlighted the breadth of talent within the club and the dedication shown by athletes in achieving significant improvements across the season.
Overall, the Celebration Night was a great success, providing an opportunity to recognise the hard work, dedication and achievements of athletes across the club. The evening also reinforced the importance of volunteers, whose continued support underpins everything the club is able to achieve.
Report – Rich Woodward, Photos – Sarah Watson