A Redruth woman who loves encouraging people to mature well has been nominated for a national award. 

Karen Edmond has been shortlisted as a finalist in the physical activity hero category of this year’s UK Active Awards after spending 34 years working in the leisure industry. 

Originally from Hull she moved to Cornwall in 1997 and since then has carved a career in local recreation and sport development.  

As community engagement manager for leisure social enterprise GLL, she works with leisure centre teams across the county, but it was COVID that brought home the need to use physical activity as a way of reducing social isolation and improving wellbeing. 

 In partnership with Active Cornwall, Karen set up Better Years – an initiative that aims to help older adults become more active. A network of five leisure centre providers was created and well over 2000 people with little or no previous sporting interest have so far participated. 

Karen said: “COVID made most of us more anxious and cautious about getting out and about. 

“I think that’s particularly true in Cornwall where communities are often rural and socially deprived. Better Years is all about building confidence, improving health and bringing people together in a fun, cost effective way.” 

 Operating under the Better brand, GLL is not for profit charitable enterprise that runs nine leisure centres on behalf of Cornwall Council. 

 James Curry, GLL’s head of service in Cornwall, said: “Karen thoroughly deserves to be selected as a UK Active finalist. 

“Without her go-getting energy, passion, enthusiasm, and ability to connect people, the Better Years programme and current activities would not be continuing today. 

“She always goes the extra mile and, in doing so, has inspired countless others to change their lives for good.” 

 Karen Edmond is one of 10 UK Physical Active Hero nominees. To vote for her, visit hwww.ukactive.com/ukactive-awards-2023-stage-2-public-vote