Club honours its trampoline queen (From Penarth Times)

Club honours its trampoline queen

A DINAS Powys woman who single-handedly launched a South Wales trampolining club has been honoured for 21 years service.

Diane Berry, of Sir Ivor Place, runs Caerau Vale Trampoline Club and was presented with gifts by coaches and members at a surprise party last Sunday.

Diane started the club after working as a coach at Western Leisure Centre.

One of her first pupils there was Julie Procter who is now a coach with her.

Julie said: "I joined with one of my school friends when I was 14. A few weeks later, Diane asked if she opened a club, would we be interested in joining. I said I would."

Now Diane's dream has blossomed into a successful Penarth Leisure Centre-based club with 65 members and a waiting list.

Head coach Diane and coaches Julie, Sue Pearse and Richard Elms, and assistant coach Mark Owen, voluntarily run four sessions a week, including a new special needs class. Diane also employs a keep fit instructor.

Over the years the club has raised more than £7,900 for charities such as Ty Hafan and Childline.

Julie said: "Diane has changed the lives of many children. She's never taken a wage but just gives and gives.

"She has set up a direct phone for children to contact her, she has constructed a website and she has even organised club holidays for the children."

Julie added: "We, the parents and staff, really appreciate her hard work. She's fantastic."

Busy Diane, who also runs LB Private Hire in Dinas, said: "I'd like to thank all the coaches and kids for working hard over the years.

"It's them who make the club, I only do the paperwork and shouting. I didn't expect the presentation at all."

The club is currently trying to raise £1,000 towards two trampolines for the special needs class. If you can help them, phone Diane on 2051 5110.