Record-breaking manager named BBC awards judge

Reading's record-breaking manager Steve Coppell has joined BBC Radio Berkshire's Make a Difference Awards as a judge.

Coppell, the Royals' manager between 2003 and 2009, said he looks back fondly on his time in Berkshire and said the club's current performance was "phenomenal" given its off-field issues.

He said he wanted nominations in his Active category from people and groups that are making an impact across all of society.

Other judges include Basingstoke actor James Bye, perhaps better known as Eastenders' Martin Fowler, who will look after the Fundraiser category.

"Sport and movement and mobility is so important these days, not only for physical help but also for mental health," Coppell said.

"[The awards] will be looking for groups of people who are doing things to involve the local community."

Nominations close on 31 March and can be submitted online.

"I want [them] to be as age-resistant as possible because as you get older, you get a bit stiffer, you might need a bit of encouragement to get out there and move those limbs," Coppell, who led Reading to a still-record 106 points in the Championship in 2006, added.

"So I hope that the nominees will come in a broad age spectrum."

Reading currently sit eighth in League One and are exceeding expectations as the club's ownership issues drag on.

Current manager Noel Hunt was signed by Coppell in 2008 and joined his brother Stephen at the club.

"You look at what's happening off the pitch and you think 'how on earth can it be continuing and [Reading] be as successful on the pitch?' It's because of personalities," Coppell added.

"I signed him because of Stephen to be absolutely honest, Stephen pestered me to death to sign him.

"[Noel] knew what he wanted and was determined to be successful and worked very hard.

"I'm sure those are the qualities that he's bringing to the team. It's not an easy job to slip into, mid-way through the season when the previous manager has made an impact but he's come in and has done a tremendous job."

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