Katy Sexton, is known to many people for her success in the swimming pool.  In 2004 she was awarded an MBE for her swimming achievements.

Katy says “having been an international athlete for the past 13 years and living and growing up in Portsmouth, it’s nice to be able to give something back to my local community, so I am thrilled to be offering my support to Off The Record. Such a fantastic service is provided for all young people in the area, it’s great to be able to assist Off The Record in helping ensure this essential service is continued. “

Katy was born in Portsmouth and trains locally.  She was first selected to swim for Britain in 1997 and became the first British female swimmer to win gold at the 2003 World Championships in the 200 m backstroke.  Katy represented Britain at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens and  has represented England at the Commonwealth Games in 1998, 2002 and 2006.

Many of you will be familiar with the face of Sally Taylor reporting every evening on the BBC South Today programme.  Sally joined the BBC over 20 years ago and has reported on every major story within the region for many years. Currently Sally also writes a weekly column for the Daily Echo and hosts the Saturday morning breakfast show on Radio Solent.

In 2003 Sally was awarded the MBE for her contribution to regional broadcasting.

She is no stranger to working with organisations that support young people as she is also patron of ‘Simon Says ‘the Southampton based charity that supports children who are bereaved.

On accepting the position of Patron Sally said:

“I know that Off the Record provides an invaluable service for young people in Portsmouth , Havant and the surrounding areas and I was amazed to hear that they have facilitated over 7000 counselling hours  in the last year with their team of volunteers.  Young people are our future and it is vital that we try to support them in any way we can to ensure that they reach their potential and enjoy positive emotional health. I am really pleased to be able to offer my support to Off the Record to help to ensure that they can continue to provide such an essential service to those young people in the area who need their support”