LAST Friday Bolton Council’s Sport and Active Living team hosted the second Primary Schools Sports Awards.

This very popular awards ceremony celebrates schools sports and PE successes and achievements as well as recognising the selfless dedication of the town’s priceless volunteers, who give up their time for the benfit of others.

The awards, introduced last year, are fast becoming a highlight of the local schools’ sporting calendars and the worthy winners received their prestigious prizes while all those attending were treated to a meal and a framed finalist certificate. More than 400 people attended the event at the Last Drop Village, including teachers, parents and children.

There were eight winners, chosen by a group of local sponsors.

The Boys’ Achiever of the Year was Blackshaw Primary’s Alfie Ainsworth, while the girl’s prize was presented to Katie Crosby of St Bernard’s. Majida Hayat of St Michaels Primary School won the Lunchtime Leader of the Year prize while Horwich Parish School’s Matt Carr was named Volunteer of the Year. St Peter’s and Paul’s School’s tag rugby team took home the Team of the Year, while St Thomas Halliwell CE Primary School was celebrating a double success.

The Eskrick Street school’s Laura Moore won Teacher of the Year, to add to the School of the Year prize.

A Special Recognition Award was presented to retired teacher Steve Griffiths for his continued contribution and dedication in giving up his time as a volunteer.

Lee Bennett hosted the ceremony and event co-ordinator Dale Spencer, senior sport development officer at the council’s Sport and Active Living department, opened the proceedings.

“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to send in nominations and for helping to make the ceremony a huge success,” said Dale.