AN OLYMPIC gold medallist, a Sunday league football team and the country's volleyball champions were among the sporting heroes honoured at the Essex Chronicle Media Group's Sports Awards.
Paralympian Dan Bentley, who won bronze in team boccia at London 2012, helped present the awards at Chelmsford City FC's clubhouse on Friday.
A record 15,000 readers of the Essex Chronicle and its sister title the voted for the Gazette teams and individuals who had been nominated for an award.
Dan, of Great Dunmow, who previously won gold at the Beijing Olympics, said: "It was a privilege to be asked to hand out the awards at Chelmsford City FC.
"It was great to see that there is so much up-and-coming sporting talent and that the county has a bright future ahead.
"It was also a nice evening meeting people and having photographs taken with all the winners.
"Well done to everyone that attended the evening and congratulations to all the winners."
There were five categories: Young Team of the Year; Young Sports Star; Unsung Hero; Team of the Year; and Sports Star of the Year.
The final two categories were sponsored by HEXX, the UK's leading bespoke sports and leisurewear brand.
City's commercial manager Mick Hooker, who helped present the awards, also handed the club's special award to groundsman Bob Batchford.
Essex Chronicle Editor Paul Dent-Jones said: "It's been a memorable year. Essex has been at the forefront, at the Olympics and beyond.
"We have Olympic and Paralympic medallists, volleyball, motorsport and table tennis champions, and so much more to be proud of."
