Star-struck after picking up award at Sir Richard Branson's home

A former UCB student was totally star-struck at an awards ceremony held at the home of Sir Richard Branson. And the glitzy event capped a memorable week during which his Birmingham-based business scooped another prestigious prize.

Richard Bath graduated from the BSc (Hons) Sports Therapy course in 2015 and, after working as a personal trainer, was appointed clinic manager at Virgin Care Private in the city centre following the company’s launch last December.

After an impressive first few months with the new Edmund Street business, the invitation came to visit Sir Richard’s Oxfordshire home – a moment that Richard is set to remember for many years. The invite was so for him to pick up his Virgin Star award in recognition of his work with the fledgling business.

“It was all very surreal because Sir Richard Branson was someone I’d always admired,” Richard explained. “We met him, his son, daughter and the winners from the other Virgin companies.

“All the winners also had stars named after them which was amazing. I’m interested in astronomy, but my star is only visible at certain times of the year, so I’ve not had the chance to search for it yet.”

Richard said that the awards ceremony came just days after Virgin Care Private had fought off tough opposition to be named Newcomer of the Year at the City of Birmingham Business Awards.

“It was totally unexpected because we were up against the Alchemist bar and we thought they would win,” he added.

“Our business was a concept idea, but things have gone really well and the plan now is to open 30 clinics around the country over the next five years.

“I have always had a passion for promoting health and wellbeing and soon realised how much I specifically enjoyed helping people return to sports, exercise and everyday living following an injury. I decided to study sports therapy at UCB led to me working in the healthcare industry and I haven’t looked back since.

“I had a great time at university and my time at UCB has opened so many doors for me for which I’ll always be grateful.”

Find out more about college and degree level sports courses at UCB.