Achievements honoured at Black Country Sport and Physical Activity Awards
It was the night that local sporting heroes went from grassroots to glamour as their achievements were honoured at the annual Black Country Sport and Physical Activity Awards.
The inspirational ceremony, organised by the Black Country BeActive, saw athletes, coaches and volunteers come together at Wolverhampton's Ramada Park Hall Hotel to celebrate in style - as winners of ten sporting categories were announced by BBC WM's Richard Wilford.
Halesowen's wheelchair tennis Paralympic champion, Jordanne Whiley, scored in two of the categories, picking up Disabled Sportsperson of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year. Her mother Julie received the awards on her behalf whilst she currently competes in California.
A video message was played out from Jordanne, who was awarded an MBE last month after winning two grand slam doubles titles in the summer and her first grand slam single title in the US Open just weeks before.
"I just wanted to send a message to say thanks so much for both of the awards," she said.
It was a double night of celebration night for Jordanne who also scooped the Sky Disability Sportswoman of the Year prize at a separate awards evening.
One of Britain's greatest former professional cyclists, Hugh Porter MBE, was present to receive the Elvis Gordon Chair's Recognition Award for his outstanding contribution to both sport and the Black Country.
Speaking to the Express & Star after the event Mr Porter, aged 75, said: "I'm blown away. This has come as a total surprise to me.
"It's marvellous to be here alongside so much local talent."
Six-time gold medal winning Paralympic athlete, David Weir, was guest speaker for the evening delivering an inspiring speech about how he had fulfilled his ambitions.
Winners in other categories included Corey Clarke for Newcomer of the Year, Richard Newell for Community Coach of the Year and Gilbert Preece for Unsung Hero.
Mr Preece, aged 72, who still commits up to 40 hours a week to football at Darlaston Town, was welcomed upon the stage with huge cheers from the audience.
He added: "I am overcome, all the committee are here with me tonight and this is a moment I'll keep with me for the rest of life."
See Tuesday's Express & Star for a special report on the awards
