ORION HARRIERS coach Jane Farrier was presented with the prestigious England Athletics National Development Coaching Award at an awards bash at Aston Villa Football Club last month.

The accolade recognises Farrier’s work in developing athletics within the borough of Waltham Forest during her role as head coach and junior team manager for Chingford-based club Orion over the last five years.

She won the London Regional Award back in September and, as a result, was shortlisted for the illustrious National Award, which was presented to her by one of Great Britain’s most successful athletes, Olympic javelin thrower Steve Backley.

Farrier has helped to develop young coaches between the ages of 14 and 21, as well as playing a leading role in athletics projects throughout local schools, among other achievements.

The coach is faced with an even stiffer challenge in the coming weeks, as Orion are faced with raising £100,000 to fund the refurbishment of their clubhouse, which is located behind the Queen Elizabeth Hunting Lodge in Chingford, if they are to remain active.

“Winning the National Award was a wonderful recognition for all the hard work and dedication shown by all our coaches, officials and volunteers,” she said, before adding: “But if we are to continue we need as much support as we can to raise the money.”