A 45-year contribution to rowing and promoting access to the sport for young people across County Durham has been recognised.
The Chairman’s Medal, which is the highest civic honour awarded in County Durham, has been given to Michael Laing, the chair of St Leonard’s School Boat Club.
Michael, who is also Durham County Council’s corporate director for adult and health services, has been presented with the award for his contribution to the sport and for four decades coaching young people.
Michael first became a rower whilst attending St Leonard’s Catholic School, Durham, in 1978, as part of a very successful junior crew.
His voluntary contribution to the school’s boat club continued long after he left, progressing from a parent helper, coach and secretary to his current role as chairman.
In that time, thousands of pupils have benefited from Michael’s commitment to ensuring open access to the sport, with many receiving university rowing scholarships, international and national honours, and victories at Henley and the under-23 World Championships.
To ensure the club continues to thrive, Michael has even established a link with a school in Perth, Australia, to allow students to take a gap year there and improve their coaching skills.
In addition to his busy career, and role as chair of the boat club, he served as chairman of the Northern Rowing Council for 12 years before leaving to take on the role as chairman of the Durham Regatta ahead of its bicentenary.
His awarded was presented by Cllr Robbie Rodiss, the Chairman of Durham County Council.
Cllr Rodiss said: “It’s a real honour to present Michael with a Chairman’s Medal to recognise his dedication to rowing and the decades he has spent making the sport better and more accessible for others.
“His contribution to the sport in general and time spent coaching children from all backgrounds, has helped to create so many opportunities for young people across the county, to succeed and achieve their potential.”
To find out more about the Chairman’s Medal, visit www.durham.gov.uk/chairmansmedal
