From this it looks like he was the first person to receive the award (in 1971):
https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarch...0-%202777.html
New award winner The winner of the first John Player
Award for Achievement in General Aviation is Mr Dick
Stratton (46). A panel of judges headed by HRH The
Duke of Gloucester unanimously agreed to the award in
recognition of Mr Stratton's contribution to general aviation
as an engineer and technical advisor (in which
capacity he helps CSE, Oxford and Hoverwork, Isle of
Wight) and his many years of voluntary service at flyingclub
and private-pilot level.
The announcement was made during the British Light
Aviation Centre's Christmas reception on December 16,
although Mr Stratton was unable to be present at the
time to collect his trophy and £250 cash prize. The winner
was selected from a total of 18 nominations.
OC619