As nominations open for the 2025 BF Honours, we’re shining a spotlight on last year’s recipients. In this feature, we speak to Lynette and Mike Robinson, who received a Bronze Medal for volunteer services to Welsh Veterans Fencing.
Tell us a little about the work you do to support fencing.
Mike: I act as DT for most of the BVF events during the season, as well as running DT for Leon Paul Junior Series (LPJS) events at Cardiff Academy of Fencing, Welsh Veterans events, Veteran Home Nations and other opens across the country. I’ve acted as the Team Manager for the Welsh Veterans at numerous veteran events including Veteran Winton, Veteran Commonwealth Fencing Championships and Veteran Home Nations.
Lynette: I’ve been the Chairman of Welsh Veterans Fencing for over fourteen years, taking over from Mike Norfolk OBE, again enjoying the lasting friendships that have developed from organising numerous veteran events and previously as part of the BVF. Additionally, I’ve volunteered as Team Manager for BF Junior events and as a referee.
What’s your favourite memory of your time volunteering in fencing?
Mike: My favourite memory is of the camaraderie, fun and friendship that was evident throughout the 2022 combined Fencing Commonwealths.
Lynette: I have so many memories of volunteering at numerous events in many roles, all joyful in their own way, that choosing a specific memory is difficult. A particular favourite is linked to seeing new members join and say how happy they are either actually competing or volunteering in some aspect, whether it be as welfare, medical, competition organiser, laying pistes, armoury, referring, as volunteers are the backbone of most sports.
What does it mean to receive the 2024 BF Honours award?
Mike: The award was totally unexpected and is a testament to the friendships developed over the years in volunteering in the sport.
Lynette: As Mike said, the award was most unexpected and probably like many who receive it, I don’t think of doing things for a reward: it’s the enjoyment, pleasure, memories, even sometimes hard work it gives at the end of a successful endeavour that makes volunteering worthwhile. I would like to say a huge thank you to the Welsh Veterans who have supported me throughout the journey.
What would you say to people considering volunteering in fencing or sport in general?
Mike: I’ve seen a lot of volunteers over the years who are still volunteering in some capacity now, and have gotten a great deal of pleasure of teaching volunteers how to run DT for events.
If you know a BF member that has made a significant contribution to fencing in Britain whilst upholding our values of honesty, respect and excellence, why not nominate them for this year’s BF Honours award?
Nominations close on the 30th May 2025.
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