YOUNG snooker ace Steve Gregson is a true sporting hero - according to his proud mum.

Debbie Gregson has nominated her talented son for one of our Community Pride awards - in this year's new Sporting Hero category.

Although only 15, Steve, of Stockton-on-the-Forest, has already played some of the game's leading players - including "Whirlwind" Jimmy White and Joe Johnson.

Mum Debbie said: "He goes from strength to strength. We're extremely proud of him. I think it would be nice to have him recognised in York."

The teenager has so far notched up more than 100 trophies in the sport. Earlier this month, he beat off competition from several senior England players to qualify for the last 32 in the Pontin's Under-21 series at Prestatyn.

Modest Steve said he was "surprised" to have been named for an award. "I love snooker," he said. "It's just something I'm good at."

York Racecourse has signed up to sponsor our Sporting Hero category - one of several new awards we are running this year.

The winner will be the person we judge to have made an outstanding contribution to amateur sport.

Steve is one of several people nominated for our Community Pride awards. We're looking for those unsung people who have made some major contribution to the lives of those around them.

To send us your nomination, fill in the entry form on this page, remembering to include the category for which you are making the entry, and giving reasons on no more than two sides of A4.

Our judges will select three finalists in each category, and winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on October 20.

To sponsor an award category, phone Nigel Briggs at the Evening Press, on 01904 567168, or email nigel.briggs@ycp.co.uk.

Updated: 10:13 Thursday, April 28, 2005