No, not a COBRA meeting discussing terrorists but the final stage of discussing the 2021 report submitted by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre as to whether the Heart of Hayling Boxing Academy should be recommended for the late Queen Elizabeth’s prestigious Queens Award for Voluntary Service.
This was one of a number of key points that resulted in agreement to the Academy being recommended for the award as no other charitable organisation submitted provided free fruit to youngsters as part of a healthy eating programme within a sporting environment.
The fact came out when both the Deputy and Vice Lord Lieutenant Rear Admiral Iain Henderson attended Hayling Community Centre to formally present the certificate personally signed by the late Queen and the inscribed glass trophy.
Because of both Covid restrictions and the death of the late Queen the presentation was delayed a number of times. As a result this particular award is unique in that the one awarded to Heart of Hayling is the only one that was given by the late Queen Elizabeth II but presented under the reign of King Charles III resulting in the Vice Lieutenant’s speech having to be specifically adapted for this one occasion.
Coaches, administrative volunteers, trustees and guests from the many organisations who have supported the Boxing Academy were present with the Mayor of Havant Councillor Diana Patrick, the Crime Commissioner for Hampshire Donna Jones and Chief Superintendent of police for Portsmouth district Claire Jenkins pictured left.
The Vice Lord Lieutenant presented all the coaches and volunteers with individual pin badge awards and with assistance from Isla Grover two small crystals were presented to Crime Commissioner Donna Jones and Chief Superintendent Claire Jenkins for their support over the years.