Super Stan races to top training honour

A Blackpool-born former champion who dedicated his life to sports has been recognised at the House of Lords.
Stan Taylor accepts his award from Lonnie MayneStan Taylor accepts his award from Lonnie Mayne
Stan Taylor accepts his award from Lonnie Mayne

Stan Taylor, 78, was awarded one of the country’s highest accolades – a British Citizen Award – for his outstanding commitment to training young athletes and adults.

The prestigious award recognises extraordinary achievements by every day people who have made a positive difference to the lives of others that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.

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Stan, an athletics coach and former runner, was once ranked sixth in the world for middle-distance running.

He started coaching in 1971 after noticing a lack of direction for the athletes who showed great talent and a good work ethic, and still spends four nights a week coaching young athletes, many of whom have gone on to compete at a county, regional and national levels.

He received his BCA Medal at a congratulatory event at the Palace of Westminster on July 7.

He said: “I was absolutely stunned when they told me that I was being awarded the BCA for doing something that has given me so much joy over the years.

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“It’s such a passion of mine to encourage both the young and the old to discover the health benefits of running for fun, as well as help those with a real talent for the sport achieve the best they can.

“I continue to put such dedication into coaching because it’s important that the coach cares just as much as the athlete. I want to be a positive example and motivator for these young athletes.”

The Westminster event also celebrated Lancashire Girl Guide leader Julie Bell for spending more than 35 years dedicated to supporting young people in her home town of Garstang.

She said: “It’s such an honour to be awarded the British Citizen Award. I was totally amazed to be a medalist. I never expected it.”