Warminster rugby stalwart on way to Twickenham for Volunteer Recognition Awards final

Warminster RFC’s Dave Coleman is heading to Twickenham Stadium, the home of England Rugby, after being recognised for his commitment to the game through the Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer Recognition Programme.

The Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer Recognition Programme, run in partnership with England Rugby, celebrates the unsung heroes who underpin the game at grassroots level. From grounds people, committee members, and coaches to those who make the teas, the programme recognises all those who keep clubs going with duties big and small.

Dave, who lives in Warminster, attended one of 42 celebratory events that have taken place at Mitsubishi Motors dealerships and rugby clubs throughout England. He was selected as a Volunteer of the Year finalist during the presentation ceremony held at Swindon Mitsubishi at Paddington Drive, Bridgemead.

Dave, along with 41 other finalists will travel to the hallowed ground in September to attend the Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer of the Year final event. Three of the finalists will be announced as overall winners and will each receive a Mitsubishi vehicle for the year in recognition of their outstanding voluntary support for rugby.

The father-of-two was one of 34 volunteers from local rugby clubs who were honoured at the event. Dave, 44, began his involvement with the club when he played in the Mini squad and over the years has gone on to coach a number of the junior sides. He’s the first in and last out – opening and closing the club, and even running the bar.

He said, “I was very surprised to win! To be recognised for what I’ve done is very nice – I just like to give something back and help the kids. I think it’s great that Mitsubishi Motors is helping recognise the commitment of all the volunteers up and down the country.”

Chris Green, Swindon Mitsubishi General Manager, said, “It was an honour to host this special occasion, celebrating the work of the volunteers at our local rugby clubs. So many hours of time and so much effort is made every week by these dedicated folk, and it was a pleasure to be able to reward them for that.”