Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb nominated an influential community figure, Simon Roach, director and head coach at Strength Academy Wales (SAW) to attend a prestigious event at Number 10 Downing Street this week (Tuesday 30th January).
The reception, hosted by the Rt Hon Lucy Frazer KC MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport provided the opportunity to celebrate the important role that sport plays in communities across the UK.
SAW is an inclusive health, fitness and wellbeing community venture open to all ages and abilities offering a wide variety of weight-based programmes and classes based in Haverfordwest. The not-for-profit organisation promotes wellbeing and social interaction, seeking to tackle loneliness and build high levels of self-esteem. SAW work in Partnership with Pembrokeshire Leisure, and are also recognised as a Weightlifting Academy and a Disability Sport Wales ‘In Sport’ Club.
Mr Roach has a wealth of experience in the sporting field, having spent 16 years teaching P.E, working as a strength consultant for the Scarlets rugby squad, as well as working as a Sports Manager for weightlifting Wales, and leading Team Wales in several Commonwealth Games and the Special Olympics. He is also an ex-international weightlifter.
Mr Roach was accompanied by fellow SAW colleague and volunteer Helen Carrington who, in her spare time leads several SAW classes encouraging more women into the sport. Last year Ms Carrington represented Wales in the British Masters Championships.
Prior to visiting 10 Downing Street, Simon and Helen enjoyed a personal tour of the Houses of Parliament, and had the opportunity to watch both the House of Commons and the House of Lords Chamber in session.
Commenting after the reception at Number 10, Stephen Crabb MP added:
“I was delighted to have the opportunity to nominate SAW for this special event in Downing Street. Simon has done a tremendous job heading this up, with his enthusiasm and positive spirit he has encouraged people from all walks of life to get into fitness.”
“SAW has been transformational for a large number of people in Pembrokeshire and it is great to see it continue to have a big positive impact on the local community.”
“The event at No.10 was a wonderful way to celebrate the vital positive contribution that SAW has made to general health and wellbeing in Pembrokeshire. I am so pleased that Simon and his teams efforts have been recognised.”
Simon Roach also added:
“It was a great honour to be nominated and recognised for the important role that SAW plays in the community of Pembrokeshire.”
“It was a privilege to attend Parliament and 10 Downing Street, meeting inspiring Sport Champions from across the UK. An extremely memorable day which we thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you to Stephen for his continued support of our health and wellbeing community based Social Enterprise.”