Jenny Archer, coach to Double Paralympic Champion David Weir was named as one of the national award winners at the UK Coaching Awards on Wednesday 17 December at a glittering ceremony in London.

In the High Performance Coach of the Year category, Jenny Archer was honoured for her outstanding contribution to Dave Weir’s success in Beijing. Archer was named alongside other coaches from swimming, sailing, rowing, cycling and golf.

Dave Weir was delighted to collect the award on Jenny’s behalf, he said:

“I am so pleased that Jenny has won this award, it’s about time she is recognised at the highest level. Jenny first coached me when I was 8 years old. For the last 3 years especially in the build up to Beijing, she committed so much time to my training every week, helping me achieve my goals at the Paralympic Games.

“Jenny is an amazing coach and gives her time for free, balancing coaching around her other commitments. I can’t thank her enough for the huge role she played in my two Gold medals in Beijing.”

Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe MP said:

“Coaches are often the unsung heroes of sport, working tirelessly to help sportsmen and women achieve their best and win medals or trophies.

“The UK Coaching Awards recognises the achievements of coaches across the sports spectrum, from grassroots to elite level. It’s an opportunity for coaches to pat themselves on the back following a phenomenal year, not least for the success Team GB enjoyed in Beijing.”