28/11/2008 - Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards

A message from Georgie Rutherford

In front of an audience of more than 1,000 people, not one, but two triathlon achievements gained recognition at last nights Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards, which this year was sponsored by the Bannatyne Group. The Northern Echo Local Heroes Awards is about recognising and rewarding those who, in one way or another, have dedicated themselves to grassroots sports in the North-East.

Now in its ninth year, sports represented at the awards ranged from football to frisbee-throwing, with the ages of the finalists ranging from six to 83. Editor of The Northern Echo, Peter Barron said “In the nine year history of the Local Heroes Awards, this is the biggest event so far with hundreds of nominations to chose from for each award. It has certainly been a very special night.”

Lawrence Whitely

North Yorkshire-based triathlete Laurence Whitely was a very deserving winner of the Youth Award for Remarkable Achievement. Laurence has shown amazing strength to overcome bone cancer and yet still find time for training and competing in his favourite sport, triathlon.

Noble Vehicle Hire

The One North-East Business for Sport Award was won by Noble Vehicle Hire. Noble Vehicle Hire have been a tremendous support, assisting and believing in the development of triathlon opportunities for Under 16s. Thanks to their provision of vans, North East Triathlon coaches have been able to transport triathlon equipment to schools around the region, introducing the sport to over 1000 juniors and creating new competitive opportunities.

The awards were a fantastic evening and by winning two award categories triathlon stood out amongst high-profile sports and sporting celebrities including Middlesbrough FC manager Gareth Southgate, Geoff Cook, coach of Durham’s county championship-winning cricket team, England rugby player Ben Woods and North-East Olympians; boxing bronze medallist Tony Jeffries, rowing bronze medallist Matt Wells and pentathlete Katy Livingston.

The occasion also raised funds for Sports Aid, the charity that gives vital grants to North East youngsters making their way in sport.

Many congratulations to all the winners.

Georgie Rutherford
North East Regional Development Manager
Triathlon England

georgierutherford@britishtriathlon.org
07834 542086