Inspirational personalities....
EXCEPTIONAL and inspiring sports personalities have been recognised for their efforts and achievements at the annual North West Leicestershire Sport and Health Awards.
The event at the Hermitage Leisure Centre in Whitwick celebrated the amazing successes of sportsmen, women, teams and clubs from across the district.
BBC Radio Leicester’s Ian Stringer played host for the evening and was joined on stage by special guest Steve Walsh, the former Leicester City defender who played more than 400 games for the club.
The winners in the 15 categories were:
• Primary school of the year -
Ashby Willesley Primary School
• Secondary school of the
year- Castle Rock High School
• School team of the year
Ashby Boys Hockey under 16s
• Junior sportsperson of the
year - Ella Jackson
• Junior volunteer of the year - Joe Dixon
• Junior team of the year -
Coalville Rugby Club under 14s
• Senior sportsperson of the
year - Rebecca Elliott
• Senior coach/volunteer of
the year - Gareth Lavine
• Senior team of the year -
Heather St John’s FC
• Disabled sportsperson of the
year - Karim Chan
• Club of the year - Belton
Villa Football Club
• Healthy lifestyle award -
Reema Bhakri
• Community award - Enrych
East Midlands
• Active age award - Jenny
Carter
• Outstanding contribution to
sport and physical activity - Rachel Bird.
The winner of the senior sportsperson of the year award, Rebecca Elliott from Long Whatton, this year qualified to represent Great Britain at the World and European Triathlon Championships.
Her silver medal automatically qualifies her for the European Championships in Austria 2020 where she will represent her country for the third time.
Rebecca said: “It was an honour just to be nominated for this award alongside such incredible athletes.
“I have learnt so much about myself over the last year by training to be part of the GB team and I’ve seen how commitment and dedication can pay off.
“Being awarded the senior sportsperson of the year award is by far my biggest accolade as this recognises all of the smaller achievements along the way as well as the support and sacrifices of my family, friends and teammates.”
Paul Sanders, head of community services at North West Leicestershire District Council, said: “This was another special night where we celebrated the achievements of our North West Leicestershire sporting stars.
“It’s not just about the outstanding athletes and teams we have but also about the volunteers and coaches that work tirelessly to deliver sport in our district.
“Everyone that was nominated for an award should be immensely proud of themselves, well done to all.”