Mandy Young, the woman who founded Adrenaline Alley, has been awarded an MBE in this years Queen's Birthday Honours.

Mandy started an outdoor skatepark at Rockingham Speedway Corby in 2003 after her son John was attacked and had his beloved skateboard stolen. She then went on to found Adrenaline Alley, building it into the biggest indoor skatepark in Europe. The much-loved park is a social enterprise with three large buildings, an educational space, training clubs, a shop and a cafe. It has been used by 25,000 youngsters.

Sadly, John died in 2010 but his legacy lives on. Mandy was given an MBE for services to young people, she said: “I am honoured to receive this award. Although it’s for the journey I’ve been on to create and develop Adrenaline Alley, it’s ultimately a pat on the back for everyone that’s helped to support this amazing facility.  It’s a public acknowledgment that’s John’s legacy has made a huge difference to me, my family and thousands of other people. It feels very special and I look forward to receiving the award.”

Husband, Paul Young said: "This wonderful accolade is true recognition for all the fantastic work Mandy has delivered in establishing Adrenaline Alley at the forefront of urban sports in the UK. She is the heartbeat and driving force within the organisation and this award is another remarkable achievement in appreciation of the effort Mandy and everyone associated with the facility has been involved with down the years.”

Mandy has always been incredibly humble about her enormous achievements, this year Mandy was also named as the Deputy Lieutenant of Northamptonshire.

Next for Adrenaline Alley is a new car park to cater for the thousand of new visitors that arrive every year, as well as an increase in competitions at the venue.