Sailing supergran wins BBC Unsung Hero award

For nearly four decades, Jean Paton has given her time to volunteer at the Salterns Sailing Club in Lymington.

Run by children with the support of adult helpers, the not-for-profit community hub has helped hundreds of young people develop their sailing and life skills.

Now, after being nominated by the club's 17-year-old commodore, 90-year-old Ms Paton has been crowned winner of BBC South's Unsung Hero Award.

She said she was "totally surprised" to receive the accolade, adding: "It's nice that people appreciate it."

Olympian Hannah Snellgrove described Jean as "formidable"

During her time at Salterns, Ms Paton has helped more than 800 children learn to sail.

Many of them gathered at the club to see her presented with her award.

Commodore Abby Wright said: "She just has that understanding that every child doesn't come in with the same ability but she just helps them be the best they can.

"She just demonstrates that whole meaning of an unsung hero. She's so helpful, she's so kind.

"She never looks for any recognition. She's always just there."

Team GB Olympian Hannah Snellgrove is among the hundreds of people who learned to sail at Salterns.

"Salterns is home to me, it always has been," said Ms Snellgrove.

"I learned to sail here when I was just about to turn eight years old."

Jean Paton is a role model to the children, according to chief instructor Neil Wharmby

Ms Snellgrove described Ms Paton as "formidable", adding: "You wouldn't argue with her - because she's always right - and she's just the most fun, amazing person.

"You can see the children looking at her with so much respect when she's teaching them."

Chief instructor Neil Wharmby also paid tribute to Jean, saying: "She's been fantastic - and what a role model.

"She'll come whatever the weather, and she's great with the kids."