A retired bank manager from Hartlepool has been recognised by the RFU for her outstanding dedication and service to her local rugby club.

Moira Bowden has been named as one of the RFU Honda Volunteer of the Year finalists after steering Hartlepool Rovers back from the brink while relentlessly driving future success to benefit the area.

The awards are part of the Honda Volunteer Recognition Programme that provides opportunities for grassroots clubs to recognise the integral work done by volunteers.

Bowden, who was on the club committee for 20 years before taking on the role as chairman during the pandemic, has been invited to Twickenham Stadium on August 30 for the award finals.

“My dad was a doctor in Edinburgh, and we moved to Hartlepool when I was two,” said Bowden.

“Dad was the club and county team medic and, as he retired, he became club president for about ten years.

“I grew up at Hartlepool Rovers and know just how massive the club is for a local community facing lots of challenges. Rugby makes a difference, helping mental health and issues players might have.

“We see children coming down on their own, some of the children have additional needs, and we watch them grow, gain confidence, become part of a team and no longer feel that they are on their own.”

Bowden is one of a number of grassroots recognised by the Honda Volunteer of the Year awards, which shine a light on those who have had a major impact within their clubs and communities over the past 12 months.

Over 2,000 volunteers were nominated across a number of categories, including Unsung Hero, Game for All, Connecting the Community and Game Changer.

Bowden has overseen a huge turnaround at the club, rebuilding a committee which was without a secretary, treasurer, bar manager and other essential roles after the pandemic.

Under Bowden’s watch, Rovers are now thriving on and off the pitch, developing their clubhouse, securing financial stability, increasing sponsorship, hosting county games and local community groups like Andy’s Men’s Club.

The club has also provided mental health training to support members’ and players’ mental health and increased physio and personal training availability for players, with costs being absorbed by improved sponsorship.

James Turner, Hartlepool Rovers director of junior rugby said:  “Moira’s value to Rovers cannot be overstated. Her leadership has revolutionised the club’s ethos and her vision for the future will be the bedrock of success for the next 25 years at Rovers, with success measured by inclusivity and access to rugby for all, prioritised over results.

“She is an inspiration, particularly to the girls enjoying rugby at Rovers, and deserves to be nationally recognised.”

Volunteers are the backbone of grassroots rugby in England. If you’d like to get involved and make a difference at your community club, visit: www.englandrugby.com/volunteering