World and twice National P1 Powerboat champions from Saundersfoot, Sam and Daisy Coleman, made a trip to London last week for the prestigious Duke and Duchess of Sussex Endeavour Fund Awards at Draper’s Hall .

The awards celebrate the significant achievements of nine nominees who have been injured as a result of their service in the Armed Forces.

Following injury in Afghanistan, Daisy was nominated for the category ‘Celebrating Excellence’ for her powerboat racing achievements and work with Team Endeavour Racing which uses powerboat racing as a tool to aid veteran recovery and rehabilitation.

The awards are held annually to celebrate the achievements of those injured in service and recognise the fortitude needed to take the next steps in their lives.

Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, attended the ceremony to meet the inspiring winners and nominees from the life-changing Endeavour Fund’s work.

Speaking at the event, The Duke of Sussex said: “You are leading examples for the armed forces community, for public service, for giving back to society and for everybody else in the UK - you do not have to be defined by your injury or disability. It does not have to hold you back. You may not realise or appreciate it yet, but do not underestimate the incredible impact you are having on those around you, by simply being yourself.”

Daisy was introduced by former Eastenders star Ross Kemp as the ‘most highly decorated person in the room’ having achieved 31 gold medals, 18 silver and 11 bronze since being introduced to the sport in 2012.

Daisy commented: “Being shortlisted at the awards and meeting Prince Harry and Meghan was a huge honour, more so than any of the medals I’ve won in service or on water. It stands testimony to what sports recovery is all about... proving that there is life beyond the military, perhaps not just the military, but beyond the lowest low there is still hope and sport can ignite that spark of belief.

“I came into my sport later in life, from a non-boating background and with eyes wide open... through hard work, dedication and a willingness to learn I’ve achieved what others would deem impossible. I hope that others will be inspired to challenge themselves; it’s not so much that you have to see it to believe it... first you have to believe it to be able to see it.”

Daisy was pipped to the post by Nathan Forster, also injured in Afghanistan, who started an Endeavour with Flying for Freedom and is now a commercial airline pilot for travel operator TUI.

Sam and Daisy are yet to reveal their plans for racing this season, but noted that the team are looking to secure sponsorship in order to commit to this year’s powerboat racing calendar, so would welcome any interested parties to get in touch via social media or by e-mailing [email protected]