Merton achiever is given prestigious award

Erica Bishop, sports and leisure development officer for Merton, has been awarded the prestigious Francis Elkin award by the Royal Yachting Association.

The Duke of Edinburgh officially presented her with the award at a reception at the Commonwealth Events Centre, in front of a huge audience that included members of the UK Olympic Sailing team.

The award is given each year to people who have made an outstanding contribution to Yachting. Erica also works at Wimbledon Park Watersports Centre, and was given the award for her work in promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in sailing. Her efforts have lead to the establishment of a ‘Sailability’ Centre at Wimbledon Park, which is used by a wide range of people with disabilities. Sailability is the official charity of the Royal Yachting Association, and was set up to meet the needs of people with disabilities wishing to take part in sailing.

John Myles, who works for Merton as the manager of Wimbledon Park, said:

“We are incredibly proud of Erica for her achievements, and grateful for all the hard work she has put in to making Wimbledon Park Watersports Centre inclusive to all. She’s a real asset to Merton Council’s Leisure Development team”.

Sailability is open to anyone over the age of eight, regardless of disability.

Ends.