Spurs name inspirational coach as No Room For Racism Icon

Belvin Lewis means everything to his local community in Tottenham and they mean everything to him.

The 54-year-old was raised in this part of London and he is encouraging the local community to keep moving as a physical activity instructor for the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation.

To mark his contribution to the lives of Foundation participants, Belvin has been named Tottenham Hotspur's No Room For Racism Icon in a surprise presentation by former captain and club ambassador Ledley King.

Watch Belvin's story

"I'm speechless, overwhelmed, over the moon! It was a shock, a beautiful shock," he said. "I cried tears full of joy. To be recognised like this, especially by an idol of mine, Ledley, is so memorable. It's the second best thing that’s happened in my life after my daughter.

"This kind of thing doesn't happen to someone like me, coming from the background I do. For the people in my community, they'll be like 'wow'!"

As part of the latest the Premier League No Room For Racism campaign, clubs are nominating inspiring individuals to highlight the contribution of black, Asian and minority ethnic people in football and showcase the importance of diversity on and off the pitch.

And for the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation, Belvin was the perfect choice.

He has been part of the Foundation for the last eight years and is an enthusiastic and inspirational coach delivering the Making Sport a Daily Habit programme, which is supported by the Premier League and Professional Footballers' Association Community Fund.

Making Sport A Daily Habit provides free weekly sessions to support those who who are not usually active to incorporate exercise into their daily routine.

The programme offers 600 regular sessions to 2,000 local residents every year.

Read more: 'Second best day of my life!' | Belvin named our No Room For Racism Icon

"I've had people in my family who have had cancer, diabetes, passed away, so I understand how important it is to look after your life," Belvin adds. "When I come to work, I give my everything.

"Coming towards the end of a week, we're knackered, but seeing people's faces is amazing and reminds us why we're here and what we're about.

"It's hectic, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I absolutely love it, making a difference, changing people's lives. Working for the Foundation's the best job I've ever had and I'm very happy, privileged and blessed to be where I am today."

Ledley King made his surprise during an exercise session at Nightingale Cancer Support Centre in Enfield where he presented Belvin with a personalised portrait.

"He's an absolute gem and seems to have a heart the size of a planet," said participant Inga Bystram.

"There are so many people in the classes and he gives everybody the same attention. Not only that, you can see all his colleagues enjoy working with him. He's like the finger on the pulse of the team."