A WOMAN who has spent the whole of 2012 helping those with disabilities has been crowned the latest winner of the Adver’s Unsung Hero award.

Alana Sargent, of Penhill, has devoted countless hours of her time to helping people with disabilities get involved with a number of different sports.

She was presented with the award and a bouquet of flowers at Chippenham Close Community Centre, where she was surrounded by close friends.

“I’m so shocked. It’s amazing to receive such an award,” said Alana on getting her award.

But, in typical modest fashion, she was quick to thank those who have helped her with her remarkable achievements.

“There are so many people out there who do really good things. If it wasn’t for other people who set the sessions up, I wouldn’t be able to get involved. I owe them a big thank you,” she said.

Alana began her generous work earlier this year volunteering with Swindon Council for 10 hours a week before moving on to becoming an assistant coach for Swindon Shock Wheelchair Basketball team.

She also offers her services as a coach to Swindon St George Tag Rugby team as well as helping out with disability ice-skating and giving one-to-one swimming sessions to support an autistic child.

She was also heavily involved with the Paralympic activities that took place at the Olympic Live Site in Wharf Green during the summer.

“Sports should be available to everyone, it doesn’t matter where they come from,” said Alana.

“There should be no barrier to stop someone from doing what they want to do.”

Alana is no stranger to overcoming a struggle herself.

Last year,she had to undergo a hysterectomy as the result of a serious illness. But that wasn’t going to stop her.

“I think that’s partly why I wanted to throw myself into all of this – it’s amazing to watch what some people can do,” she said.

Alana was nominated for the Unsung Hero award by Ben Humphries, former Ability Sports Development Officer for Swindon Council, who contacted the Adver after witnessing first-hand the difference that Alana is making to people’s lives.

And if you were to think, that after all that, Alana would want some time off, you’d be mistaken.

“I’m going to keep going with my voluntary work,” she said.

“I want to raise more awareness of sports for people who are wheelchair users.”