Volunteer award for Derby Athletic Club stalwart Ernie

Ernie Cripps, a stalwart for many years on the Derby Athletic Club officiating team, has won the Inspiring Official award at the East Midlands England Athletics Volunteer Awards.

Derbyshire legend Ernie has given almost 70 years to the sport, taking on many committee roles for club and county, officiating at most Derby Athletic Club matches, and ever-present at club nights offering much-needed support.

As the club’s Officials Secretary, Ernie has played a key role in ensuring that meetings have the officials needed to cover all events.

A delighted Ernie commented: “I’ve enjoyed it. If you enjoy it you will keep coming back.”

A pillar of experience and wisdom and ever reliable, Ernie is always someone to be counted on and always willing to take on a role to make sure things happen. He is a truly remarkable person and a the award is more than well-deserved.

At the presentation evening, hosted in Nottingham, Regional Council Chair Jane Pidgeon said: “It was great to be able to present the awards face to face after two years of online presentations.”