BHP to sponsor Local Heroes Awards

 

The star spotter has confirmed he will attend, saying the event plays a vital part in recognising talent, achievement and dedication among those involved in sport in the region.

 

Mr Hodgson, who played for Liverpool, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Norwich City and Sheffield Wednesday, went on to manage Darlington FC twice and to become a FIFA registered players’ agent.

 

He now works within the new BHP Sport division of regional law firm Blackett Hart & Pratt mentoring and supporting young football players.

 

BHP Sport is sponsoring the Local Heroes Award for the Most Promising Sporting Talent.

 

Mr Hodgson said: “I’ve been to the Local Heroes Awards before and it is an extremely touching, amazing night. They are some well known faces from sport in the audience but in my experience those people are in awe of the award nominees who really are the unsung heroes of sport in this region.

 

“I am always impressed by those individuals who give up their time to bring on our next generation of sportsmen and women. They are really genuine people who don’t do it for money or for recognition and it’s right that they get their night in the spotlight.”

 

Mr Hodgson said the judges had an impossible task choosing winners from the nominees.

 

He added: “It’s a very difficult job to choose between players who are naturally gifted and have God-given talent but still have to work hard to maintain the high standards expected of them and those who get there through sheer determination and hard work.

 

“Previous winners of the awards have shown that it takes very, very special character to achieve what they have done and to put themselves in the same position as those with natural ability, who are equally worthy of recognition. 

 

This year marks the eighth Local Heroes Awards, which take place at Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield, on November 29

 

Mr Hodgson added: “I am delighted that BHP is playing its part in recognising the region’s talent and passion in sport. If it wasn’t for these awards the hard work of many would go unnoticed except among those they are directly involved with.”