SPORTING stars from across the borough were recognised for their achievements on the track, pitch and water at a ceremony last night (Tuesday).

The Mayor of Hillingdon Councillor Brian Crowe held the first ever awards for sport in Hillingdon at the Civic Centre, in Uxbridge, for teams, individuals and clubs.

Over 20 different sports were represented at the awards including football, netball, hocky, swimming, power lifting, sailing and trampolining.

Teams who represented the borough and finished in the top 10 of the London Youth Games received recognition, along with clubs who had achieved the industry quality mark 'clubmark' for their high standards.

A total of 13 individuals who have excelled in their sport also collected awards.

There were two special awards; the first being the Clive Hamilton Award for the Outstanding Volunteer of 2008 which went to Terry Tilbury, of Hayes, who was hailed for outstanding dedication to developing netball clubs in the borough.

From what started out as a small adult team, Terry now co-ordinates over 100 players across five leagues from nine to 65 years old and her work to develop junior netball activities has provided opportunities for countless young people.

The second special award was The Mayor's Trophy given to Jenna and Lauren Turner, of Ruislip.

Jenna is the Junior British Champion in the 100m Freestyle and European Silver medalist in the 4x 100m freestyle while Lauren achieved the European Qualifying Time in 200m Backstroke at the Olympic Trials and won silver in the British Championships for the 100m backstroke.

Mr Crowe said: "Through talent and dedication, these people have achieved great things and this is an opportunity for us to celebrate this success together. This evening is the first of what will become annual awards to celebrate sporting achievements in Hillingdon."

The evening also marked the launch of the council's gold bursary scheme, providing financial support of up to £10,000 for up to two individuals who already or are expected to, represent Great Britain or England at an international level.