Two Local parkrun Heroes Receive a High Sheriff Award

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP received a very warm welcome from the volunteer team at Barclay parkrun to present two very deserving parkrun volunteers Matt Oxhey and Jamie Henderson Celebration of parkrun Awards at Barclay parkrun for outstanding contribution to the parkrun community.  

“Matt and Jamie have participated together at Barclay parkrun both by completing the event and by volunteering. 
 
Matt first met Jamie when he started teaching at Amwell View School. Jamie and Matt were there together for a year before Jamie left. They kept in touch as Matt assisted with respite and looking after Jamie. Matt is interested in running and Jamie wanted to give it a go too so Matt introduced Jamie to Barclay parkrun. 

They started by volunteering first so that Jamie could see what it was like in September 2019. Every time that Jamie volunteers, Matt volunteers with him and Jamie has a high volunteer ratio of 81%. 

Jamie and Matt volunteered five times as marshals and Jamie found that he enjoyed it and wanted to try a run. They did their first run together on 22 January 2022 and Jamie has completed 10 parkruns. Matt always accompanies Jamie and goes at Jamie's pace. Matt has commented how much Jamie enjoys parkrun - both volunteering and the physical participation. Thank you to Matt for encouraging Jamie in the first place and for giving up your time to accompany him. This is indeed impressive teamwork. 
 
We also recognise what an immense achievement parkrun is for Jamie. Not only volunteering, which he has done in all weathers, but also his physical accomplishments. Jamie has overcome obstacles in order to participate in parkrun. He continues to impress us with his positive attitude and resilience particularly with our "slopes". He digs deep and has always completed the course so very well done.” 

Siobhan Ferrandes, Barclay parkrun Race Director

“Very special awards at beautiful Barclay parkrun for Matt Oxley & Jamie Henderson who both run and volunteer. Jamie has looked after Matt, who has special needs, for 16 years. Matt loves running and Jamie came to help volunteer in 2019 and, after marshalling for some time, wanted to try and run which he now does with Matt, always at his side. Two remarkable men. Thank you Run Director, Siobhan Ferrandes, Event Ambassador, Katrina Dell, and all your wonderful volunteers!“ 

The High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP

If Matt and Jamie have inspired you to volunteer there are lots of ways to be involved. parkrun is a free, community event where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. parkrun is 5k and takes place every Saturday morning. Junior parkrun is 2k, dedicated to 4-14 year olds and their families, every Sunday morning. Head to the parkrun website to find your local event here.

For further details of the event and the High Sheriff’s visit, please contact Jane Parker j.parker20@herts.ac.uk.