NORTH-East sporting hero Katy McLean shared her story of captaining England to Rugby World Cup glory in the hope of inspiring others to pursue their dreams last night (Friday, October 10).

The 28-year-old Darlington Mowden Park Sharks fly-half, who led her country to victory in France this summer, was keynote speaker at this year's County Durham Sport and Physical Activity Awards.

Addressing an audience of more than 300 guests at Ramside Hall Hotel, near Durham City, Ms McLean said winning the World Cup was probably everything she had ever dreamed of and she intends to use her example to encourage others.

“I hope my story will inspire many others to push themselves to achieve their dreams and never give up hope,” said the South Shields star, who is about to quit teaching at Bexhill Academy in Sunderland to turn professional rugby player.

The awards, organised by County Durham Sport, recognise and celebrate people who have encouraged, inspired and enabled others to get involved with sport and inspired sporting success.

The winners were:

Contribution to Physical Activity: Hunwick Harriers, which has doubled its membership and delivered ‘Couch to 5k’ courses.

Physical Activity Achievement of the Year: Gavin Gettings, a health trainer with Pioneering Care Partnership.

Coach of the Year: Paul Woodley. Mr Woodley, of Derwentside Amateur Swimming Club (ASC).

Young Coach of the Year: Adam Woods, of Sedgefield Water Polo Club and Wear Valley ASC.

Primary School Contribution to PE and School Sport: Easington Colliery Primary, which has created a specialist sensory room for SEN children.

Secondary School Contribution to PE and School Sport: Dene Community School, which has achieved highly in basketball, cheerleading and more.

Volunteer of the Year: David Iceton. Mr Iceton, chairman of Sedgefield Cricket Club.

Young Volunteer of the Year: Imogen Storey, of Bishop Auckland Netball Club.

Sports Club of the Year: Sedgefield Harriers. Junior Sports Club of the Year: Bishop Auckland St Mary’s Junior Football Club. Sporting Achievement of the Year: Durham University Women’s Volleyball, for winning its first British University National Championship.

Young Sporting Achievement of the Year: Simon Abley, a British taekwondo champion undefeated in Britain for 18 months.

Contribution to Sport: Keith Greenwell, the “lifeblood” of Bishop Auckland Tennis Club for more than 40 years.