Professional and amateur sports in Nottinghamshire were showcased in an annual awards ceremony held at Nottingham Trent University.

The awards, organised by Sport Nottinghamshire in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council, celebrate achievements across all levels of sport in the county ranging from amateur to international.

Amongst the honours handed out was a special achievement award for England international cricketer Stuart Broad following his sensational year which included a record-breaking bowling performance against Australia to win England the 4th Ashes Test.

Chairman of the culture committee, Councillor John Knight described the events as extremely important to encourage sport in the county. He said:”This evening is an important opportunity to recognise achievements and show appreciation”

Councillor Knight worked in partnership with Malcolm Cowgill, chairman of Sport Nottinghamshire and the County Sports Partnership, and the rest of his team to bring the event to life. Both men spoke during the event about fantastic amount of success that Nottinghamshire has had this year and thanked not only the dedication of the athletes but also the coaches and more importantly the volunteers, who allow many clubs to function.

Amongst the winners was Ellie Downie, who was part of GB’s bronze-medal winning World Gymnastics Championships team. She attended the event with her sister Becky who was last year’s main award winner. They spoke about how it feels to be involved in the awards.

Award Winners

Sportsperson of the Year – Elise Christie – Speed Skating

Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Ellie Downie – Gymnastics

Disabled Sportsperson of the Year – Oliver Hynd MBE, – Swimming

Junior Disabled Sportsperson of the Year – Georgia Shearman – Gymnastics

Volunteer of the Year – Jo Dawson – Ashfield Rugby Club

Junior Volunteer of the Year – Katie Harker – Nottinghamshire Leadership Academy Network

Club of the Year – Notts Gymnastics Academy

Team of the Year – Mansfield Harriers Veteran Men’s Team

Junior Team of the Year – Nottingham Corsairs Rugby Club U17

Sporting Project of the Year – Nottingham Rugby in the Community

Sporting School of the Year – Worksop Priory CofE Primary School

Performance Coach of the Year – Nicola Perry – University of Nottingham Table Tennis

Community Coach of the Year – Ian Wilks – Nottingham Anglers Association

Junior Coach of the Year – David Keasey – University of Nottingham Triathlon