THE annual Montgomeryshire Sports Awards will take place later in the month

Volunteer organisers saved the event from the scrap heap last year after funding cuts threatened the continued celebration of Montgomeryshire sport which had been a popular feature of the North Powys sporting calendar for more than a decade.

However the event was saved at the 11th hour and organisers will once again be honouring the stars of 2019 at a special ceremony on January 31, 2020.

As ever Newtown’s The Hafren theatre will host the event which honours the star performers and leading club achievements each year.

Among the most prestigious awards is the Senior and Junior Sports Personality accolades as well as Club of the Year and Team of the Year.

Organiser Dave Peters said: “We have reverted to January as it is felt this is the best time to have such a celebration.”

Last year Trefeglwys hurdler Lauren Williams won the senior personality prize while Abermule golfer Connor Owen and Llanidloes football player Maria Francis-Jones went home with the under 18s boys and girls gongs in recognition of their achievements in 2019.

Llanfyllin table tennis star Grace Williams was named disabled sports personality of the year winner.

Welshpool athlete Maddie Griffiths won the under 14s accolade while Welshpool judoka Rhys Handel claimed the under 12s prize.

Newtown-based Maldwyn Harriers Athletics Club won the Junior Team of the Year award while Forden United Football Club lifted the Senior Team of the Year prize.

Meanwhile Newtown Rugby Club won the Club of the Year accolade.

Maldwyn Harrier coach Hefin Rowlands won the Coach of the Year award while Berriew Football Club’s Kelly Midmore was volunteer of the year.

Rhodri Morgan went home home with Young Sports Leader award while Services to Sport awards were made to Penny Thomas, Mike Kilvert and Jackie Lowrie.

Meanwhile Newtown’s Park Run event claimed the Outstanding Achievement award.

Dave added: “The event is only a success if we have the nominations and we encourage all those who wish to nominate to contact 01686 630344 or 07967766754.”

The closing date for nominations has been extended to Friday, January 10 to cater for interest with all encouraged to complete their nominations as soon as possible.