Nominations close for Unsung Hero 2024

Nominations have now closed for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Unsung Hero award for 2024.

There will be 15 recipients of the Unsung Hero award - one from each of the BBC nations and regions. A judging panel of industry professionals will then decide on one overall winner, who will be announced live at the Sports Personality of the Year awards show, which will take place in December at MediaCityUK in Salford.

Last year's winner was Des Smith - the "driving force" behind Sheffield Caribbean Sports Club since 1986.

Previous winners have taken the platform and grown their club networks to help more people locally, made appearances in national media, joined Olympic legacy boards, worked closely with government mental health initiatives, and consulted on Home Office projects to help young people at risk.

Dame Laura Kenny - Britain's most decorated female Olympian - is the ambassador for the award, and spearheading the campaign for nominations.

She said: "I was eight when I joined Welwyn Wheelers - my local cycling club. If it wasn't for the dedicated people that ran it, I might not have achieved everything I have in the sport. It's so important to recognise these clubs and the people that bring their local communities together through sport."

Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, said: "Behind every champion, medallist or record holder are the most incredible people who have spotted them, helped them, driven them, consoled them and made them believe. And they need honouring too.

"It is such an inspiring award, and I can't wait to find out the stories behind our 15 winners for 2024."

How is the award decided?

This year we will be awarding a winner for each of the 15 BBC nations and regions. Those winners will then be put forward to a final judging panel of industry experts who will determine the overall winner, who will be announced live at the Sports Personality of the Year awards show.