POOLE’s sporting heroes have been celebrated at the annual awards ceremony held at Poole Grammar School.

The prestigious Poole Sports Awards mark the sporting achievements of individuals or teams, and recognise the dedication or long service to a club or sport.

This year sports including netball, cross country running, windsurfing, karate, football, boccia and table cricket were among those commended.

Poole Mayor, Cllr Phil Eades, presented 40 nominees, individuals and Poole-based school teams and clubs with Certificates of Commendation.

“I am delighted to be part of this event and to celebrate the sporting achievements of so many local people,” he said. “The range of sports represented at these awards is truly inspiring.”

Sponsored by Borough of Poole’s leisure partners, Everyone Active, a new category was introduced this year, the Everyone Active Sports Award, for two of the nominees whose sporting success deserved additional recognition.

Georgia Hall is the current Ladies British Amateur Golf champion and Giles Kuzyk is world champion in sailing, Topper class, at the age of 16.

The final presentation of the evening, the Freddie Rowe Sports Cup, was awarded to Gina Wilcox, for her outstanding contribution to sport and in particular swimming.

“We have had another fantastic year for sports and I’m proud to say that the Olympic legacy in Poole is going from strength to strength,” said Cllr Judy Butt, cabinet portfolio holder for public engagement and participation.

“We hope these awards will encourage more people to take up sports, whether individually or as part of a team or club. Who knows, we may see these people receiving sporting awards in the future.”

The awards are run by Poole Sports Council, in partnership with Borough of Poole’s culture and community learning.