Darren Barrenger, community activist and former parliamentary candidate

For the past 6 years until March of 2007, I was the Chair of Colchester United Community Sports Trust, a charity which was launched by the Sports Minister Richard Caborn in 2001. The Trust's vision is to to work in partnership with communities, continuing to develop an inclusive range of sporting, educational and social opportunities, improving the quality of life for individuals and neighbourhoods.

Apart from activities within Colchester itself the Trust also provides countless opportunities within Clacton, Harwich and many of the surrounding rural communities. I am extremely proud of my association with the Trust and although I am no longer directly involved, the organisation remains one of the most forward thinking and progressive within the country.

I was delighted that Richard Caborn came to the area to formally launch the charity and present me with our official recognition from the Charity Commissioners. The Trust has continued to extend its range of activities over the years and has been recognised for a whole of positive improvements that it has made to communities and in particular to the quality of life of many young people.

Last year the Trust won the Community Category of the Colchester Business Awards which was recognition not just of the excellent community work that the organisation does but also of the way in which the organisation operates. Details of the award can be found on the Trust's web site http://www.cucst.org.uk/news_community_award_29_11_06.htm