Charlie Donaghy

Charlie is a revered figure within the North East sporting community. 2012 will mark his 55th year of participation in sport in the region, which began by coaching tennis at a youth club in the 1950s. One of his greatest achievements was the introducing basketball to County Durham - founding a league in 1960 then serving as league secretary for 25 years. He is a key cog in the local sporting scene, having played up to county level in leagues including table tennis, tennis, pool, billiards, snooker, basketball and cricket. Currently he administers the record keeping for over 40 local leagues in traditional British sports such as bowls and quiots. As well as being a dedicated father and grandfather he is widely admired in the community. For 38 years he was a teacher at Wolsingham School then served as Chair of Governors and has thus had a tremendously positive impact on the provision for local children. He is a Governor at Tow Law Primary, where his wife Alice volunteered for many years. When Alice sadly passed away in 2009, he raised over £3,000 in her memory to provide an adventure trail for the pupils. He also gives up his time to help students to produce their award-winning school newspaper. Charlie has inspired generations of local children. He has always inspired me to do my best and I am truly proud to have such a wonderful man as my father. He is an excellent ambassador for grass-roots sport and education and would be a worthy carrier of the Olympic flame.