IPSWICH'S sporting stars are to be recognised at an award ceremony organised by Team Ipswich and sponsored by The Evening Star.

IPSWICH'S sporting stars are to be recognised at an award ceremony organised by Team Ipswich and sponsored by The Evening Star.

Nominations are still being sought for the 2009 Sports Awards. They will be given to recognise outstanding contributions and achievements of local sporting youngsters and adults.

There are 13 different categories, from Sports Personality of the year Award to School of the year award, and can be nominated online via the Team Ipswich website www.teamipswich.gov.uk.

Two new categories have been added this year, including lifetime achievement award and the young community volunteer of the year award.

John Grose is set to host the prestigious Sports Awards ceremony which takes place in October and shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the ceremony once the winners have been picked in early Autumn.

Sports Development Officer Rachael Palframan said “Ipswich has a wide range of sporting talent and this is a great opportunity to recognise all the hard work they put into training, competing and winning. It also encourages people of all ages and abilities to participate in a wide array of sports and encourages a healthy lifestyle”.

Judy Terry, Portfolio Holder for Arts, Culture and Leisure said: “With the London Olympics only three years away, Ipswich Borough Council, through its Team Ipswich initiative, continues to encourage excellence in sport with these awards.”

Winners of a Team Ipswich Sports Award may also be nominated for county, regional and even national awards.

The closing date for all nominations is Friday, September 11.

During the build-up to the awards, The Evening Star will be featuring some of those nominated and will also be covering the event on the night.