Local sports teacher Roger Quaintance was the first winner of the Cornish Times Senior Sports Personality of the Year award with Victoria Eames claiming the top Junior award and Mariesa Newman the special award.

Looe Golf Club proved an ideal setting for the Cornish Times' first ever presentation on Tuesday evening. Introducing himself as a retired sportman - who remained an enthusiast - master of ceremonies Robin Fenner thanked the nine finalists for their attendance.

"South East Cornwall was fortunate to have such talent in its midst", he said. "There are many outstanding sports people who haven't won through to tonight's final but have enjoyed tremendous success in their own field. Perhaps they will be with us next year."

Voting proved extremely heavy and every nomination received support.

Plymouth Argyle professional Jason Rowbotham presented the trophies having been introduced by Mr Fenner who said he hoped Argyle were a goal up at Brighton in the FA Cup. How right he was as Argyle went on to win 2-1 and reach the third round!

Mr Fenner said how important it was that sport should receive every backing from the local Press and he praised the Cornish Times for arranging such an event. A buffet brought to a close a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Awards were: senior Cornish Times Sports Personality of the Year winner, Roger Quaintance; runners-up, Marian Sutton (marathon runner), Will Doidge (pool).

Roger is a local sports teacher who heads Liskeard College and Community Sports department. He plays cricket with Boconnoc and has been a regular soccer player with Liskeard in the Western, South Western and currently in the East Cornwall League where the side heads the table.

Junior - winner, Victoria Eames; runners-up, Liam Storey (tennis), Guy Stroud (athletics).

Victoria is an exciting tennis prospect who has established herself as a top Cornwall player at both junior and senior levels. She was ranked number one at Under-16 and number Two U-18.

Special award - winner, Mariesa Newman; runners-up, Terry Wright (transplant games), Joel Westlake (outstanding young sportsman who has had to overcome asthma attacks).

Mariesa loves swimming and running and that fact that she has had to battle against diabetes has not held her back. A County sprint champion she is also a county swimmer.