ALAN Goggin, head of Birkett Long solicitors' financial services department, has been awarded a “Value the Volunteer” certificate from the Rugby Football Union as formal recognition of the contribution he has made to the game.

ALAN Goggin, head of Birkett Long solicitors' financial services department, has been awarded a “Value the Volunteer” certificate from the Rugby Football Union as formal recognition of the contribution he has made to the game.

Mr Goggin, who has played rugby since he was 10, celebrated his 60th birthday by playing for Brightlingsea's 2nd XV alongside his sons, Ben and Luke.

He is president of Brightlingsea Rugby Club, as well as being mayor of the town.

He was also British senior champion waterskier 12 times, represented the country at two world championships and seven European championships, and was team manager and chairman of the British Water Ski Federation.

“My life is undoubtedly busy, but I'm fortunate in being able to take part in the things I love, both through my involvement in sport and in my career. When you're doing something you enjoy, you somehow find time to fit it all in,” he said.