A THOUGHTFUL and dedicated woman who was celebrated for coaching the next generation has shared her story ahead of this year's Pride of Bracknell Forest Awards.

Rachel Eldridge was the runner-up in the Volunteer of the Year category in 2017 and was nominated by the manager of Bracknell Gymnastics Club for her volunteer work.

Her commitment saw her reach the finals of the annual awards, which bring together the community for an inspiring and heart-warming evening.

She is hoping to be able to make nominations of her own this year and is encouraging others to do the same.

Rachel said: "It was such an amazing experience watching everyone getting their awards and celebrating all the achievement in the community.

"I was so proud to see that my work was noticed by people and was happy to be a part of something so big in the community.

"I think it is amazing that we hold these awards every year to celebrate some amazing work.

"It is important to acknowledge hard work and achievements and show the whole of Bracknell that we have some amazing people, charities and companies in the local area."

This years awards will take place at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst on March 15.

Gymnastics has always been close to Rachel's heart. She started attending the sports centre since she was four years old and has gone on to earn coaching qualifications.

She added: "As soon as I was old enough, I did my coaching qualification. All the coaches that taught me when I was a gymnast inspire me to be as good of a coach as they were.

"They helped me grow as a child into the adult I am now. I started volunteering in the summer holidays of 2013 and I haven't stopped since.

"I am still volunteering my time and don't think I will ever stop.

"I will definitely be looking to nominate and will continue to do so for the years to come."

Visit: www.prideofbracknell.com/nominate to tell the awards organisers about the unsung hero in your community.