A full history is on the "Our History" page. You can click the button above to see this. The Torch Trophy Trust was founded in 1962 by the late Commander Bill Collins RN Retd., the organiser of the 1948 Olympic Torch Relay from Olympia in Greece to Wembley in London . The Torch Trophy Trust is a charitable organisation, whose main aim is to encourage voluntary work in sport and other related outdoor activities within local communities. The mission statement "Encouraging Sports' Volunteers" defines the purpose of the Torch Trophy Trust. Since 1999 The Central Council of Physical Recreation has provided the day to day administrative support for the work of the Trust. The Trust welcomes this association with a body that represents the interests of all sports. 1999 also saw the election of the first President of the Trust, Sir Bobby Charlton, CBE. As a staunch supporter of the Trust, Sir Bobby along with other notable sports persons, gives special significance to the recipients of awards by attending the annual presentation ceremony to honour the unsung heroes of sport. It is part of the aim of the Trust to show volunteers that their work that is otherwise done without any acknowledgement, is valued and appreciated by sport in general. The Torch Trophy Trust not only presents Awards, but also is actively engaged in encouraging and helping voluntary workers at club level. The Trust operates a Bursary Scheme, called the "Torch Trophy Trust Bursaries". The aim of the Bursaries is to provide financial aid for those wishing to increase their knowledge and their ability to help others on a voluntary basis by taking courses to qualify as club coaches, officials or administrators. All those associated with the Trust are committed to its aims to recognise the ‘unsung heroes' and to enable individuals to develop their skills. It is the dedication of these individuals that enables others to participate and develop their talents in their chosen activity. |