THE man behind Poole's very popular Festival of Running has been recognised for his contribution to sport in the borough.

Mike Towner, of Poole Runners, was awarded the Freddie Rowe Sports Cup in recognition of his outstanding dedication and services to athletics at an annual awards ceremony which recognises sporting talent in Poole.

Mike has been associated with running for over 30 years. He has been a member of Poole Runners for all this time and has held positions from committee member to chairman and throughout this time he has helped organise and encourage runners of all ages and abilities.

He has organised many events including the club mile open to all, annual Broadstone Quarter, the very popular Summer Series runs held at Upton House and the Winter Series held at Boscombe Pier.

One of his greatest success stories is organising, and being race director, for the Poole Festival of Running for the last 18 years.

Within this time Mike has worked with Poole Council to encourage children and adults alike to take part in the yearly event in Poole Park, which has now taken place for 35 years and has around 2,000 competitors each year.

Organised by Poole Sports Council in partnership with Borough of Poole's Culture and Community Learning Service, the awards ceremony celebrated the sporting achievements of individuals, teams and those who have shown ongoing dedication to a sport.

The event at Magna Academy School on Wednesday, September 21, saw presentations for a wide variety of sports, including badminton, climbing, athletics and swimming.

Longfleet Youth FC were also awarded for being the first voluntary community club in the country to identify and provide regular down syndrome active football sessions.

They now hold regular monthly training sessions for people aged four and above with down syndrome.

Beverly Bowers, Longfleet club secretary, said: “The current team are close to being able to compete in league fixtures which is a wonderful achievement in such a short space of time.”

The club now plan to set up further teams to also play in leagues and increase the number of training sessions.

They were awarded a certificate of commendation for outstanding contribution to community youth football and an Everyone Active trophy.

Richard Yates, chairman of Poole Sports Council, said: “Each year, we ask local sports organisations and schools to tell us about their sporting successes and identify volunteers who go above and beyond to ensure the smooth running of their sports club.

"The evening is to recognise sporting success and contribution that Poole has seen over the last year in many different sports.”

Nominations for next year’s Sports Awards will open in April 2017. For more details contact the council's recreation development team on 01202 261306.