TWO volunteers who have supported Farnham’s disabled sports community for more than 30 years have received recognition for their outstanding contributions.

Chris and Julie Stephens began volunteering with Swimability (formerly known as Farnham Sports Association for the Disabled) in the early 1980s following an accident that left Chris severely limited in movement, reliant on a wheelchair, and with limited ability to speak.

He has has served as the group’s treasurer since 1982.

Farnham mayor David Attfield presented the awards on behalf of Farnham Sports Council.

He said: “Chris and Julie are the heart and soul of community sports clubs like Swimability. They have volunteered for many hours, month after month, for more than 30 years to enable others in the community to receive the health and social benefits as well as the enjoyment of an active and sporting lifestyle.

“A generation or more of disabled people in Farnham will have benefited from Chris and Julie’s contribution, and these awards show how much the town appreciates their work.”

Despite his accident, which happened in 1976, Chris started swimming in 1981 and became actively involved in the organisation that is now known as Swimability. Julie has been a constant support and an outstanding Swimability volunteer in her own capacity. As Chris’ carer, they volunteer very much in partnership.

The couple were unable to attend the Farnham Sports Awards in October so the presentation took place at Swimability’s annual meeting and the mayor’s visit, known only in advance to the chairman and secretary, came as a complete surprise to Chris and Julie and all the members.

The Farnham Sports Awards are organised each year by Farnham Sports Council to recognise the contributions and achievements made by individuals, groups and teams of all ages within the local sporting community.

Alan Taylor, chairman of Swimability, said: “The mayor’s surprise visit made the occasion especially memorable. Chris and Julie have been regular supporters of disability sport for well over 30 years. That’s a fantastic achievement and everyone in our club is grateful for their loyalty and dedication.”