Doncaster’s rowing volunteer earns his MBE

Dudley Fletcher, Captain and Junior Development Officer at Doncaster Rowing Club, was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list this month.

"I was delighted to hear the news that Dudley had been awarded an MBE", said Di Ellis, Chairman of the Amateur Rowing Association,  "as a hard working volunteer he has been the driving force for the development of junior rowing in Doncaster, this is a well-deserved award.’

Since becoming a member of Doncaster RC in 1994, the 64-year-old has been central to the development of the club.

When Doncaster RC was first formed in 1990, the club had limited facilities and equipment. A former Deputy Head Master of Rossington Comprehensive School, Dudley set up the Doncaster Schools’ Rowing Association (DSRA), an organisation that now has 12 local schools participating.

Thanks to Dudley’s efforts, the club was selected as one of only six clubs in the country to pilot the ‘Project Oarsome’ programme. His fundraising activities have now generated over £500,000 in total and over 5,000 young people have completed the Dry Start Rowing Programme under his guidance.

William Mcllroy, a founder member and the Treasurer of Doncaster RC, said, "Dudley has acted as a mentor and friend to many young people from less advantaged sections of the local community, whose lives lacked direction and purpose. His efforts have changed the lives of many people young and old. The tireless effort he has made over many years has gained him great respect from all around him."

Dudley Fletcher is now retiring having held his position as Captain for the past 14 years.   Sandra Nevett said, "He is a very special man who has done so much for the sport and inspired so many rowers.  Our annual regatta on Saturday 23rd May was a brilliant success with a record number of entrants competing from around the country. Doncaster achieved a number of wins and we were delighted that the Civic Mayor was able to attend to present Dudley with our gift of thanks."