East London Rugby Club communications officer and acting treasurer Gary Bird won the Essex County RFU Unsung Hero category in the 2022 Honda Volunteer of the Year Awards for his dedication to the game.

The award is part of the nationwide Honda Volunteer Recognition Programme that gives everyone in rugby the opportunity to nominate a volunteer at a grassroots rugby club, or wider rugby family, who they think deserves recognition for their commitment to the game.

Management committee member Gary was nominated by the club as someone who has gone above and beyond to provide positive experiences, enhance member enjoyment and ensure the club is fit for purpose.

He joined the club at the Memorial Ground in West Ham with his late wife Deborah as a supporter in 2012 but soon became communications officer, promoting the club and its on and off pitch activity to media, community and rugby audiences, and keeping club members connected and informed.

Gary received a framed valued volunteer certificate and a special recognition England Rugby rucksack and hat during a reception at Harlow Rugby Club also attended by Club Chair Simon Crick and Head Coach Eddie Gooby.

Gary said: “I was delighted to have been nominated and to follow in the footsteps of my late wife Birdy, who received a similar honour in 2017. I wish good luck to Matt Burley from Chelmsford RFC who is representing the Essex region in the national final at Twickenham Stadium in September.”