Rachael Hutchinson of Able2B Norwich up for BBC SPOTY award

Rachael Hutchinson is the co-founder of rehabilitation centre Able2B which aims to improve the function of those living with disabilities.  

The centre, at the Gilchrist Industrial Estate in Tuckswood, was founded in 2016 by Rachael and former professional boxer Jon Thaxton.

Able2B works to combine fun with therapeutic elements of sport using Rachael's knowledge with Jon's motivational skills.  

Rachael gives some 50 hours per week to the service, which helps more than 400 clients per week.

Able2B gym carries out life changing work for people with disabilities (Image: Able2B)

Her work has included teaching children with cerebral palsy to walk and helping stroke survivors regain independence.  

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Rachael has also established a project called Discover Your Ability, which allows children both with and without disabilities to play alongside each other, boosting awareness and changing perceptions to promote inclusivity.  

Speaking to this newspaper earlier this year as a new spa room was opened, Rachael said some clients travelled for as long as six hours for appointments. 

Rachael Hutchinson, left, and Jon Thaxton with youngsters at an Able2B class (Image: Able2B)

She said: "The whole thing just started as an idea, but we are just keeping up with the speed of demand, so it shows how needed the services are."

The BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony is being held in Salford on Tuesday, December 19.

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Rachael will be up against 14 other national and regional winners from across the UK after being named as the East representative.

The high-profile ceremony is being shown live on BBC One from 7pm, during which the winner of the Unsung Hero award will be announced.

A spokesman for Able 2B said of Rachael's nomination: "We feel so proud to be chosen with such an amazing group of people."