Equalities and diversity campaigner Alan Quick was recognised by Intercom Lynx South West in 2006 for his work in opposing homophobia in the South West of England.
Alan is the editor (and sports editor) of Mid Devon weekly newspaper, the Crediton Courier, where, 40 years ago, he began his career in journalism on a work experience placement while still at school. While he has been editor and sports editor for more than 10 years, Alan jokes that he is still doing his work experience!
In addition, Alan has been a DJ for 35 years, including on the gay scene. Formerly he promoted the South West's biggest gay club night, Boxes on Tuesday, in Exeter, which was valued in the community and supported a number of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) charities and organisations.
One of those who attended Boxes on Tuesday was the first £1 million black footballer, Justin Fashanu, who was also the first and, to date, only UK professional footballer to come out as gay. Justin suffered both racism and homophobia and it was in 1998 that he took his own life.
Alan has been actively campaigning against racism and homophobia since the death of his late friend. He is involved in campaigns against inequalities in football, previously with The Justin Campaign and lately with Football v Homophobia and other organisations. He is a member of Exeter City Football Club's One Game One Community group, is a supporter of LGBT-friendly Devon Lions Football Club, Kick It Out and is a member of Devon FA's Inclusion Advisory Group.
Alan has contributed to two books about Justin Fashanu. He has also exhibited an historical display of memorabilia about Justin at venues across the UK in support of LGBT events and those opposing homophobia and racism. Some items are on permanent display in the National Football Museum in Manchester.
Previously Alan helped write material for some national equality documents and educational material.
He was the inspiration behind the establishment of Exeter Pride, which he did so with Intercom, the LGBT support network in the South West of England, assisted by a few other volunteers. It has become one of the South West's biggest and free annual LGBT Pride events. Alan was chairman of Exeter Pride for three years and is still a trustee with the organising committee.
In other areas, he is also a trustee of anti-bullying charity Local Heroes and is involved in the organisation of the Dartmoor Folk Festival.
Formerly he was a member of Devon Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs and for five years Alan worked part-time for Devon County Council supporting Devon YFC and The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme in Devon.
In April 2017 Alan received a runner-up Outstanding Contribution to Sport award in the Exeter Express and Echo newspaper 2017 Sports Awards for his campaigns against inequalities in football, in particular with Exeter City Football Club's One Game One Community Group.