WINCHESTER rounded off an incredible year for British sport with an awards ceremony at the Guildhall.

The Winchester District Sport and Physical Activity Alliance (SPAA) held its fifth annual sports awards on December 5. Award-winning sports writer Andy Steggall hosted the event, with Mayor of Winchester, Frank Pearson on hand to celebrate sporting achievement at a local and national level. Coaches, volunteers, sportsmen and women across the district vied for 18 different awards.

City councillor Patricia Stallard, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and sport, said: "The evening is a magnificent way for us to showcase all that is great in terms of sport across the Winchester District.”

More than 300 people attended, with stars of Britain's Olympic and Paralympic teams out in force. Among them were wheelchair rugby player Kylie Grimes and Peter Symonds' goalball star Adam Knott. The SPAA's chairman, Stuart Barlow, said: “Picking a winner for each category is always a tough job but as tonight shows the achievements of all of our nominees are something special and they all deserve praise.”

Winners on the night were diver Thomas Graham for Junior Sportsman, while Junior Sportswoman went to gymnast Kelly Simm. Junior Disability Sportsperson was Paralympic goalball player Adam Knott. Junior Male Volunteer was Will Short and Junior Female Volunteer went to Bethany Shaw. Kings School Year 9 Football Team were named Junior School Team of the Year, while Junior Team went to St Cross Symondians U13 Cricket Team. Senior Sportsman was cricketer Jimmy Adams, with martial artist Lindsey Andrews picking up the Senior Sportswoman award.

Senior Disability Sportsperson was Alex Goodman for swimming. Senior Volunteer of the year was Jim Shea for his involvement in football. Volleyball's Tim Nash picked up the prestigious Coach of the Year prize. St Cross Symondians Mens 1st XI Cricket Team were announced as Team of the Year. Worthys Youth FC picked up Club of the Year, while a special Service to Sport Award went to Pauline Goater for work with Judo across the district.