TALENTED sportsmen and women gathered to celebrate the success of local clubs, coaches, athletes and players at the Wyre Forest Sports Awards.

The annual event, held on Tuesday, January 15 at Kidderminster Town Hall, recognised the area's top sportspeople, as well as the commitment of the volunteers and coaches who support them.

Run by Wyre Forest District Council in association with head sponsor Kidderminster Town Council, the ceremony saw awards handed out in nine different categories including 'Unsung Hero' and 'Club of the Year'.

Club of the Year was awarded to Bewdley Cricket Club, while Kidderminster Athletic Football Club's Colin O'Brien won Coach of the Year after 12 years in the post.

Ian Harper, a member of the Special Olympics for 19 years, took home the Inclusive Sport Award, and Alex Barker, of Halesowen Athletics and Cycling Club, was recognised for his honours in cycling with a Junior Sportsman Award.

Izzie White, of Chester Road Bowling Club, was named Junior Sportswoman of the Year, while darts player Luke Woodhouse and Samurai Judo Club's Olivia Turner won the Senior Sportsman and Sportswoman accolades.

Wyre Forest Swimming Club was named Junior Team of the Year and David Sadler took home the coveted Unsung Hero Award for his voluntary work with Kidderminster Tennis Club.

The night also included an opening speech from Councillor Martin Stooke, Mayor of Kidderminster, and a video from local Paralympian Claire Cashmore, updating attendees on her training to qualify for next year’s Paralympics in Toyko.

Councillor Juliet Smith, cabinet member for leisure, said: “The sports awards were a spectacular success and a great opportunity to celebrate the achievements of some of the district’s most talented sportspeople, coaches and volunteers.

“It is so important to recognise this hard work as sport is so beneficial to both physical and mental wellbeing.

"Shining a light on these inspiring stories, will have a positive impact on the community and hopefully, will inspire others to become more active too.”