DARLINGTON'S next generation of sporting talent had its moment in the spotlight at an awards presentation evening.

Almost 200 people attended the first presentation of 2014/15 in the Darlington Sports Winners Scheme, at Polam Hall, on Wednesday, July 2.

A spokesman for the awards committee said: "We are delighted that the success of the scheme continues to grow.

"The revised format which invited more nominations from schools has proved hugely successful and the large number of entries received confirms the success.

"The nominations for the July awards show the strength of talent in Darlington, covering numerous sports and a huge number of incredible success stories – proving that Darlington’s sporting youngsters are incredibly strong and improving all the time."

Deputy mayor Tom Nutt presented the awards, which included:

* Luca Pontone, primary sports achiever;

* Max Clyde, secondary sports achiever;

* Fiona Dewar, further education;

* Springfield Academy orienteering team, primary school team award;

* Polam School badminton team, secondary team award;

* QE sports management team, further education team award.

Elsewhere, Spraire Lads Under 11s took the team award in the under 11s category, while Darlington 21st All Stars took the under 16s team award.

Hannah Turnbull won the service to sport award in the under 17s category, with Ben Edkins taking the senior award.

The disability sports award went to Sam Coleman.

The committee thanked the event's sponsors and Cllr Nutt gave a speech in which he wished all the young sports participants the best of luck in their future sporting achievements.

A further presentation evening will be held at Carmel College on December 7, with the grand final at Darlington College on January 28 next year.