A YOUNG Helensburgh sailor has received the 'Sporting Achievement of the Year' prize at Argyll and Bute's annual sports awards.

Calum Bell's achievements have included selection for the British Topper Squad as one of the best young sailors in the UK, and fifth place finishes in the world championships and national championships.

Calum's selection for the British squad meant a commitment to attend training events and competitions around the UK throughout the winter.

He's already received the Class Academy Sailor of the Year prize from RYA Scotland, and finished in second place in this year's National Series event, with the highlight being an outright win at the Plymouth Regatta.

Several other local sporting heroes made the final shortlist – including another Helensburgh Sailing Club member, Howard Marsden, who was nominated for the 'service to sport' award.

Other local nominees were Martin Caldwell of Helensburgh Rugby Club; Gordon Black and Barry Cox of Helensburgh Hockey Club; Steven McLaren of Taekwon-Do Helensburgh and Active Schools, Alan Meikle of Hermitage Academy Hockey Club and Evelyn Cormack, from Active Schools Helensburgh.

The Council’s Policy Lead for Community and Culture, Councillor Robin Currie said: “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the winners. These people have gone the extra mile for sport in their local community and are doing their bit to get people of all ages involved in active and healthy lifestyles.

“Sport is not only beneficial physically but also mentally and these sports volunteers must be acknowledged for all their hard work and dedication.”