Many congratulations to Paralympian Ellie Simmonds, who has just been awarded an OBE.
Ellie received an MBE in 2006 for her individual achievements and services to sport. She has now deservedly been given the higher award, promoting her from a Member to an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.
Prince Charles awarded her OBE at Buckingham Palace, much to her delight. Ellie now joins OBE swimming heroes Rebecca Adlington (alumna of the AASE Programme) and Sascha Kindred in sharing this honour. Other sports personalities who received MBEs at the same ceremony included Jade Jones and Katherine Copeland.
Ellie, as well as concentrating on her own performances, is also passionate about raising the awareness and appreciation of Paralympic sport and sport in general. She is also actively encouraging Britain to get more active, through her work as ambassador to the British Gas SwimBritain Challenge. Her brilliant efforts on behalf of this campaign are the subject of a previous blog.
It is incredible that such a young person has already had such a huge impact in her sport. As well as achieving academic success and a hugely successful sporting career, she is also encouraging others to participate. She is a great role model and inspirational for all of us, those going into the sport as well as those who have been in the industry for many years. We look forward to seeing what further heights she can reach, and wish her luck and success for the future.
Image Credit: http://www.bbc.co.uk