By Edward Elliot

 

A FORMER netball coach has been recognised for more than three decades of community work with an award from the council.

 

Catherine Cotterill, 52, was awarded the Autumn Stocksbridge Citizens Award by Stocksbridge Town Council for running the town’s netball club for the past 31 years.

 

The PE teacher, who acted as treasurer and secretary as well as coaching and umpiring in the role, said she knew of the award but was completely shocked when council clerk Teresa Bisatt contacted her to say she had won it.

 

Catherine said: “I’m really honoured to get it; it was a complete and utter surprise.

 

“I love netball and have thoroughly enjoyed my time coaching at the club. It was a very difficult decision to give it up.”

 

The club, located on Linden Crescent, train and play at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield during the winter months and are now coached by Lorraine Tazzyman.

 

Lorraine nominated Catherine for the award and said she had no hesitation in doing so as the recognition was long overdue.

 

She said: “A lot of people in the town and surrounding areas owe Catherine an awful lot.

 

“She has worked so hard and been incredibly selfless for so many years and everyone at the netball club was devastated when she said she was retiring.”

 

The Citizens Award Scheme was launched by Stocksbridge Town Council in 2005 and gives people the opportunity to nominate local residents who make a significant contribution to the community.

 

Mrs Cotterill was presented with a certificate and £50 worth of gift vouchers by the mayor of Stocksbridge, Councillor Martin Brelsford, at the town council meeting on Thursday, October 13.

 

Coun Brelsford said: “Giving out this award is one of my favourite duties as mayor. The community needs people like Catherine and I was delighted to present the award, which she thoroughly deserves.”

 

If you wish to nominate a person or group contact Stocksbridge Town Council on 0114 288 7895 or email stocks.council@btconnect.com.

 

Details of previous winners can be seen on the town council website, www.stocksbridge-council.co.uk.