A TEENAGE swimming sensation is among the local sports stars who have been honoured at a special awards ceremony organised by Winchester City Council.

Kayla Van der Merwe, 17, who is tipped to represent Great Britain at this summer’s Olympics, won Junior Sportswoman of the Year award for her success at an international and national level. The compere was Kevan James and special guest was Olympic athlete Ashleigh Nelson.

Here is a full list of the winners:

Junior Sportsman – David Cutler (Winchester Boxing Club)

Junior Sportswoman – Kayla Van der Merwe (Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club)

Senior Sportsperson – Matilda Nicholls (Sailing - Andrew Simpson Watersports Centre)

Disability Sportsperson – Caitlin Hatfield (Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club)

Coach of the Year – Zoe Baker (Winchester City Penguins Swimming Club)

Volunteer of the Year – Ann Stanhope (Winchester parkrun)

Service to Sport – Chris Westbrook (Hursley Park Cricket Club) and Roger Cooper (Upham Football Club)

Club of the Year – Winchester Rugby FC

Team of the Year – Hursley Park Women’s Cricket Club

Changing Lives through Physical Activity – Verity Wright (RunVerity)

Making a Difference – Kim Achurch (Whiteley parkrun)

School of the Year – Otterbourne C of E Primary School

Cabinet member for sport and communities, Cllr Malcolm Prince, said: “Our award winners are truly inspiring. This year’s nominations show that our communities are brimming with talented sportspeople and dedicated volunteers.

“Several of our winners dedicate their time to help people of all ages and fitness levels to get more active. It is an especially exciting time for sport in the district as we look ahead to the opening of the new leisure park.”