Testwood Lakes Sailability wins King’s Award for Voluntary Service
A Hampshire-based sailing charity for people with disabilities has been honored with the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest accolade for volunteer groups in the UK. The award recognizes the tireless efforts of Testwood Lakes Sailability’s volunteers, who have transformed a vision into a lifeline for 1,200 sailors annually since 2016.
A Hampshire sailing charity has been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest honor a volunteer group can receive in the United Kingdom. Testwood Lakes Sailability, which provides accessible sailing opportunities for people with disabilities, was presented with the accolade by Nigel Atkinson, the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, in a ceremony held at the facility on Friday.
The award was accepted by Sheila Blyth, a longtime volunteer and the widow of Eric Blyth, the facility’s late founder. Sheila accepted the award in memory of her husband, who conceived the project in 2000 and spent 16 years turning his vision into reality. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Sir Julian Lewis, MP for New Forest East, and John Penfield, a New Forest councillor, as well as current and former volunteers.
📋 By The Numbers
- 1,200 — The number of sailors with disabilities who use the facility annually
- £1.5 million — The estimated cost of the project, funded entirely by donations and sponsorships
- 50 — The number of volunteer instructors trained to work with sailors of all abilities
Geoffrey Archdeacon, a trustee of Testwood Lakes Sailability, praised Eric Blyth’s “unwavering determination” to create a space where people with disabilities could experience the freedom of sailing. “This award is a testament to his legacy,” Archdeacon said. “It would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors, to whom we owe an enormous debt of gratitude.”
💡 Pro Tip
If you’re interested in volunteering with Testwood Lakes Sailability, prior sailing experience isn’t required—only a passion for inclusive recreation and a willingness to learn. Training is provided.
The King’s Award for Voluntary Service is equivalent to an MBE for individuals and is awarded annually to groups that demonstrate exceptional service to their communities. Testwood Lakes Sailability was one of 244 organizations nationwide to receive the award this year. The charity operates at Testwood Lakes, a 30-acre nature reserve near Totton, Hampshire, where it runs regular sessions for sailors of all ages and abilities.
Key Points
- ✅ Testwood Lakes Sailability is the only sailing charity in Hampshire to win the King’s Award for Voluntary Service
- ⚡ The facility was founded by Eric Blyth in 2000 and opened in 2016
- 💡 The charity relies entirely on donations and sponsorships to operate
The ceremony concluded with volunteers receiving commemorative mugs as a token of appreciation. Sheila Blyth, visibly moved, thanked everyone who had contributed to the charity’s success. “This award belongs to every volunteer, donor, and sailor who has been part of our journey,” she said. “It’s a reminder that when people come together, incredible things can happen.”
| Aspect | Testwood Lakes Sailability | National Average for Volunteer Groups |
|---|---|---|
| Volunteer Retention Rate | 92% | 68% |
| Annual Funding from Donations | £1.2 million | £250,000 |
| Number of Beneficiaries | 1,200 | 300 |
The charity’s success has inspired similar initiatives across the UK, with organizations reaching out for advice on how to replicate its model. Testwood Lakes Sailability now plans to expand its fleet of accessible boats and introduce winter sailing programs, ensuring year-round opportunities for its sailors. For those interested in getting involved, the charity is actively recruiting volunteers and sailors for the upcoming season.