Kerry Gruson was awarded 2008 Liz Earle Ladies Day Trophy at Skandia Cowes Week at a special prizegiving ceremony with Dame Ellen MacArthur presenting Gruson with the award…

The award, celebrates the achievements and contribution of women in sailing.

Kerry (pictured) was the first disabled woman helm to compete at Skandia Cowes Week. Her condition, termed Anoxia (a lack of oxygen to the brain after being strangled by a Vietnam veteran), has left her with paralysis in the legs and arms requiring her to use a wheelchair for mobility on land.

While sailing a boat, Kerry uses a specially designed seat that provides the trunk stability necessary to sail in various wind conditions.

Competing in her third Skandia Cowes Week this year, Kerry continues her focus on overcoming her own disabilities and the additional element of recovery from cancer. She is a living illustration of joy and courage in sailing - a highly deserving winner of the Liz Earle Ladies Day Trophy.

The four others on the shortlist include Louise Morton, Sam Davies, Hilary Lister and Katie Miller, details of nominations (published on skandiacowesweek.co.uk website earlier in the week)