AN EXPLORER from Corwen who is widely considered Britain’s best canoeing coach has been awarded an MBE for his work.

Raymond Dennis John Goodwin, 66, who has taken expeditions to the US, Sudan and the Arctic Circle and has shaped UK governing body of canoeing was awarded the prestigious order for his services through the sport on the UK Government’s New Year’s Honours List.

Mr Goodwin, who is better known for coaching and canoeing with survivalist Ray Mears through the Canadian wilderness for the BBC’s Bushcraft series, volunteered his time to help youth charity Fairbridge to introduce canoeing to young people in the deprived inner city areas of Liverpool in the 1990s as a way of encouraging them to undertake activities which would not be typical given their environment.

During this period, he also volunteered with the Urdd Glan Llyn centre in Bala, which introduces young people to canoeing as well as other outdoor activities such as climbing, swimming and mountaineering.

Denbighshire Free Press:

Mr Goodwin said he is "over the moon" about the MBE honour

Mr Goodwin has also organised annual canoe symposiums every year since 1995 and continues to do so.

Alongside his ventures, he has published books which are considered essential reading for any budding canoeists.

Following the award, Mr Goodwin said he is “over the moon” after being awarded the order. He said: “I am absolutely over the moon. I was shocked by how many people have put me forward for the award.

“It is an honour to be so highly regarded.”

Alun Cairns, the secretary of state for Wales, said: “These honours recognise and celebrate the hard-work and achievements of the incredible people who go above and beyond to put others before themselves.

“I am truly grateful for their dedication to their communities and thank them all for their tireless work to improve the lives of others as well as their extraordinary ability to inspire people all over the country.”

See the full article in next week’s Free Press!