05 December 2009

Following an incredible year of athletics for Great Britain and Northern Ireland, UKA celebrated the Best of British at the 2009 UKA Awards Dinner on Saturday 5 December at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull, Birmingham.

Guests included past and present athletes, club representatives, volunteers, coaches, UKA board members, sponsors, staff and national athletics media. They were welcomed with a Heidsieck & Co Monopole Champagne reception before the dinner and awards began.

During the event, guests were treated to a one-off performance by  2008 Olympic 400m hurdles Bronze medallist Tasha Danvers and GB&NI World Championship 800m finalist Marilyn Okoro, who were accompanied by World Championship 110m hurdler William Sharman on the piano.

UKA were honoured to recognise and reward the services of so many people who devote their time and energy to athletics in recognition of their efforts and passion which are essential to the sport.

With BBC sports presenter Rob Walker on the microphone and guest presenters, UKA Awards were presented to:

British Olympic Association athlete of the year:  Phillips Idowu

UKA World Class Coach of the Year:  Toni Minichiello and Aston Moore

The 2009 SPAR outstanding achievement award:  Annie Tagoe

Partnership of the year:  Highlands (Scotland)

Official of the year:  Joy Alexander (Northern Ireland)

Volunteer of the year:  Ailene Cameron (Scotland)

Coach of the year:  Mike Smith (England)

Club of the year:  Swansea Harriers (Wales)

Frank Starkie Memorial Award:  Bryan Smith

Service to Sport Award:  Roy Stratton