An Oakham Rugby Club volunteer has made the shortlist for a prestigious national award after being nominated as a finalist for her trailblazing exploits by Leicestershire RFU.

Barbara Crellin, who lives in Greetham, has been recognised for her tireless work in the resurrection and growth of the girls' section at Oakham – alongside her long-term presence and support for the Minis and Juniors – which has provided opportunities for youngsters across Rutland to learn and enjoy the game.

Barbara, who combines a variety of responsibilities at Oakham with her role as Leicestershire RFU president, has given her time to the club across four decades and has now been put forward for the final national shortlist for the Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer of the Year 2020.

The programme gives grassroots rugby clubs a unique opportunity to recognise their volunteers and Barbara, who also volunteers at the town's vaccination centre and with Rutland Community First Responders, says the news came as a pleasant surprise.

The 70-year-old said: "My involvement with the county RFU means I know about these awards happening, but I never expected to be nominated myself. I was gobsmacked.

"We started up the girls' section almost two years ago with a handful of children and we are up to around 45 now across the age groups.

"It just snowballed from those early sessions. Kev [Howley], a fantastic coach, and I have worked very hard to sustain it.

"I can't wait to return on Sunday mornings when we can. It gives me great pleasure to see so many girls getting stuck in and enjoying it."

The Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer Recognition Programme provides a platform to recognise all volunteers who have made a great contribution to their club and community – no matter what their role.

Over 100,000 volunteers give back to grassroots rugby all over the country and, thanks to the support of Mitsubishi Motors, their tireless work behind the scenes is being amplified nationwide.

Barbara's nomination also saw her receive a special video message from Red Roses star Emily Scarratt, who represents Loughborough Lightning in the Allianz Premier 15s.

The England fly-half congratulated her fellow Leicestershire resident for her efforts in providing opportunities for young girls to play rugby in the period before the coronavirus pandemic – with some potentially following in Scarratt's footsteps in the years to come.

Barbara's granddaughter, Isla, is set for Leicestershire trials when action resumes having starred for Oakham's Under-18s – and the family's close links to the club don't end there.

Barbara and her husband Keith – a past president – remain on the committee having played an active role within the club since their arrival in the town in 1981.

The couple's children, Gary and Lynsey, are both heavily involved while Barbara and Keith have grandchildren pulling on Oakham shirts from Under-8s level right through to the men's first team.

Barbara's selfless efforts have underpinned it all and she knows just how vital volunteers are to grassroots rugby.

Barbara, who will discover if she is a national winner in a virtual awards ceremony on March 19, added: "There is a role for everybody within a rugby club.

"I never played rugby, but I have always enjoyed the involvement with rugby culture. I have been to so many clubs in our county and been made so welcome at all of them.

"Come and have a look and make sure you enjoy it. I can guarantee rugby clubs would welcome you with open arms."

To find out more about the Mitsubishi Motors Volunteer Recognition Programme and how you can volunteer to help your local rugby club, visit www.englandrugby.com/mmvrp