Get Inspired Unsung Hero 2018: Scottish swimming volunteer Kirsty Ewen wins award
- From the section Get Inspired
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Swimming volunteer Kirsty Ewen is the BBC Get Inspired Unsung Hero for 2018.
Ewen overcame mental health issues to inspire others to do the same and find a better place through swimming.
After receiving her award from Sports Personality of the Year host Gabby Logan, Ewen said it was "amazing" to get to know all of the other Unsung Hero finalists.
She also vowed to inspire more young people to "never give up" and says she wants them to know "there is always hope".
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| Recent Unsung Hero award winners | |
|---|---|
| 2017: Denise Larrad (all-round volunteer) | 2014: Jill Stidever (swimming coach) |
| 2016: Marcellus Baz (boxing coach) | 2013: Joe and Maggie Forber (basketball coach and administrator) |
| 2015: Damien Lindsay (football coach) | 2012: Sue and Jim Houghton (community sports club) |
How is the award decided?
The names of those volunteers who dedicate their free time to help people participate in grassroots sports and fitness activities were put forward for their local award.
With the help of a locally sourced panel, a shortlist was considered and 15 regional winners were announced.
They went forward for the national award, when a panel of elite sportspeople - with a little help from those working in sports industry and media - looked closely at each Unsung Hero.
After a day's debate, they agreed on the 2018 BBC Get Inspired Unsung Hero.
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