The highs of the Olympics Games and her first baby, the lows of doping and football sex abuse scandals – this has been quite a year for Tracey Crouch.

The energetic politician loves her job as the woman in charge of sport, tourism and heritage because it is diverse.

And judging by the memories of her first year in the job, that is exactly what it has been.

She said: “On a personal level, giving birth to Freddie, my beautiful, bonny, baby boy was, of course, a highlight. But being at Rio as sports minister was special professionally.”

Miss Crouch, 41, left Freddie, who was born in February with his dad Steve Ladner while she flew off to the opening ceremony in Brazil.

She met members of Team GB, including flag-bearer and tennis champion Andy Murray – and took the opportunity for a quick selfie.

At the time Miss Crouch had only just returned from maternity leave but was immediately thrown into a whirlwind schedule of high-profile meetings with foreign counterparts, receptions and media calls.

So how has she coped juggling being a mum and minister?

She said: “We are still parent-sharing, so I think it’s too early to say. Maybe in the next few months I might see a difference.”

As well as her key role in the national arena, Miss Crouch, a qualified football coach, is passionate about promoting sports locally.

She said: “Medway Council should be praised for seeing the importance in investment. I think access to sporting facilities for everyone should be promoted.

“I represent the Luton and Wayfield area, where some residents have low or no income. These people are not going to be able to afford facilities at Medway Park.”

Miss Crouch is also keen to push for a wider range of activities for youngsters and was enthusiastic about the opening of the Flip Out trampoline park at Chatham Dockside in October.

She said: “After all, not everyone wants to play football.”

Miss Crouch has also faced a barrage of questions from the media and fellow politicians on doping in athletics and, more recently,the scandal of child sex abuse at football clubs dating back to the 1970s..

She said: “On both issues it is important to respond quickly and effectively.”

Meanwhile, after a hectic year and certainly one to remember, Miss Crouch is enjoying a well-earned family break in Cornwall including baby Freddie’s first Christmas.