THE founder of a Bingley-based mixed abilities rugby team has won a national award.

Mark Goodwin has been awarded the Festival of Learning National Social Impact Award in recognition for his exceptional achievements in the field of adult learning.

The award celebrates individuals and tutors who have inspired others around them to embrace learning opportunities and achieve their potential.

Mr Goodwin set up the Bumble Bees Barbarians, England’s first mixed ability rugby team, which has since inspired many similar schemes across the country.

Through the Workers Educational Association’s Inclusion in Rugby classes, which are co-produced and co-delivered by learners, he promotes the mixed ability model both locally and nationally and helps set up new mixed ability clubs.

Following on from the scheme’s success, he is to start a programme called Inclusion in Sports, which will open up other sports to people with disabilities.

Mr Goodwin said: “It’s been a privilege to see first-hand people who were previously disempowered gain new skills, confidently deliver presentations and share their positive experiences with others."

Stephen Evans, chief executive at the Learning and Work Institute, said: “Mark’s award recognises his passionate belief in inclusion and the positive difference he is making for people with learning difficulties and disabilities.

"Where many have seen barriers, Mark has seen opportunities and, as a result, he has pioneered mixed ability rugby clubs which are providing new skills and experiences for people with learning difficulties and disabilities across the country.

“Lifelong learning is crucial for all of us as jobs and society changes around us, and as the population ages. Festival of Learning is all about people being inspired by stories like Mark’s.

"We encourage everyone to get involved in learning and access information on learning opportunities and support with the costs of learning that might be available, such as through Advanced Learner Loans or from the National Careers Service, as well as talking to their local colleges and providers about what’s on offer”.