THE first Local Heroes Awards have been voted a huge success - and now the event is destined to become even bigger and better.

Plans are already in place to stage the Local Heroes Awards 2001 after the inaugural ceremony turned into an emotional triumph for grass roots sports enthusiasts.

The event - organised by The Northern Echo, and supported by Darlington Building Society and Century FM - was staged at Darlington Football Club last Friday night.

Nominations, sought through Local Heroes, produced some fantastic stories of courage, endurance, determination, and dedication.

The overall Local Hero of 2000 was Darlington powerlifter Steven Grey, who recovered from a broken back ten years ago, to become a champion.

He won £500 worth of sports equipment, as well as a specially-commissioned trophy.

As well as the presentation of the awards, Paul "Goffy" Gough from Century FM kept the audience entered with A Sporting Question, featuring former Boro and Newcastle footballer John Hendrie and Durham cricketer Michael Gough.

Peter Barron, Editor of The Northern Echo, said: "We knew we were in for a great night but it surpassed all our expectations.

"It was all about putting unsung heroes from the world of grass roots sport in the spotlight and the response was tremendous.

"Now we intend to build on the success of the first awards event and make it even more special next year."

Hundreds of guests turned up at Darlington Football Club's Ambassador Suite for the awards dinner but there were not enough tickets to meet demand.

A provisional date has been booked at The Tall Trees Hotel near Yarm for next year's event.