Sundays call for a delicious roast dinner for most people, a day to relax and prepare for the week ahead, but for Northwood College for Girls student eight-year-old Penny, they are spent on the ice rink helping children with additional needs learn how to skate.
Since the age of six, Penny has carried out this selfless act, and two years later, many continue to attend the sessions early in the morning, practising their skills.
Her dedication and commitment were recently recognised by British Ice Skating (BIS) ICE Awards in November 2025, and she deservedly took home the award for Inspirational Volunteer of the Year 2025.
Described as a “shining star”, British Ice Skating went on to say: “Penelope is already making a remarkable impact as a volunteer at SPICE Skating sessions.
Her dedication shows maturity beyond her years and embodies the spirit of kindness, inclusion, and joy that makes our skating community so special.”
Penny’s kindness spread throughout the ice skating community, as British Olympic gold medallist Robin Cousins, who made his debut in the 1980 Winter Olympics, praised her volunteering work.
Shared via video link, a special award was given to the young skater and family, commending their contribution to British ice skating by helping SEN children over the years.
NORTHWOOD&RUISLIPnews caught up with Penny’s family after the awards. Penny’s mother, Katrina said: “We are beyond proud of Penny. She took this role upon herself, as she used to watch me and her older brother volunteer on the ice.”
For more information visit, www.spiceskating.org/
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