Volunteers are at the heart of sport and physical activity across Lincolnshire. This Volunteers’ Week we're recognising and celebrating the contributions of volunteers across the county. Ben Ambrose and Fred Morris and are just two of the individuals in Lincolnshire giving up their time and energy to create opportunities for others, often quietly, but making a massive difference.

Both were recognised for their contribution as finalists for the Unsung Hero award, at the Lincolnshire Sport & Activity awards 2025.

Ben Ambrose

For a decade, Ben Ambrose has been a driving force behind Gainsborough Dolphins Swimming Club. What began as a young volunteer role has grown into a vital leadership position, with Ben stepping up as coach and club leader following the Head Coach’s retirement.

Ben dedicates hours each week to the club, supporting more than 180 swimmers across all levels, from those just starting out in the Learn to Swim programme to experienced members of the Masters Squad. His impact extends far beyond poolside coaching. Ben fosters a positive, inclusive environment where every swimmer feels valued and motivated to achieve their best.

His commitment has helped deliver remarkable results, with swimmers from the club becoming county medallists. But for Ben, success isn’t about medals, it’s about building confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of sport.

Whether he’s planning competitions or travelling to support swimmers across the county, cheering from the sidelines, Ben’s energy and dedication make him the beating heart of the club.

Hear from Ben Ambrose, winner of the Unsung Hero Award 2025, in this video filmed for the awards.

Fred Morris

Fred Morris has been a volunteer at Spalding Hockey Club for over 57 years, shaping generations of players and leaving an enduring legacy. Over the years, Fred has taken on countless roles, including Club Chairman for 22 years and 1st Team Captain for a decade. Today he continues to serve as a Club president.

During his time with the club, Fred has championed inclusion, creating opportunities for young people of all abilities, particularly those with social and behavioural needs. Despite his age, Fred is still an active player, turning out for development squads and proving age is no barrier to participation.

Fred founded a Primary School Hockey Tournament initiative to introduce hockey to younger children in a fun, inclusive and structured way. This has gained national recognition and inspired similar initiatives across the country. He has introduced schemes to develop young umpires and more recently, launched walking hockey sessions which welcome older adults, families and newcomers into the sport.

Fred’s contribution is not measured by years alone, but by countless lives he’s touched and the inclusive, supportive community he has helped to build.

Hear from Fred Morris, Unsung Hero Award 2025 finalist, in this video filmed for the awards.

Recognising our volunteers

Both Ben and Fred were recognised as finalists at last year’s Lincolnshire Sport & Physical Activity Awards. As we look ahead to this year’s awards, their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication and community spirit that these awards celebrate.

This Volunteers’ Week, we extend a heartfelt thank you to every volunteer across Lincolnshire. Whether you’re coaching, organising or simply offering encouragement, you are making a difference.

Nominate an Unsung Hero

If you know an volunteer who goes above and beyond to support others, recognise their hard work and dedication by nominating them for this year's Lincolnshire Sport & Physical activity Awards.

Find out more about the Awards and nominate.