THREE of York's most dedicated sports coaches have had their hard work recognised by North Yorkshire Sport.

Awards were presented to eight outstanding coaches from the region at the association's third annual club and coach conference at York St John College.

Hockey coach Peter Feasby was hailed by a parent of a boy with a serious medical condition who had grown in confidence and been given a chance to shine by Feasby's coaching.

Ruth Bikerdike was nominated by the Federation of Disability Sports Organisations for her work with disabled swimmers in and around York for free.

Lorraine Lord, from the federation, said: "Ruth is an unpaid volunteer who gives her time freely, coaching disabled swimmers both in York and around the Yorkshire region. She had trained swimmers from grassroots level through to international performance, many of them achieving world records.

Football coach Paul Harrison was also credited by several nominations praising his commitment, high standards and professionalism.

Event organiser Matthew Williams said: "Sports coaches are perhaps the greatest asset we have in developing sporting opportunities in our communities. They offer many hours of dedication and commitment, usually voluntarily, to help people of all ages and abilities to reach their potential and to enjoy sport. These awards are our way of recognising their commitment and saying thank you."

For more information on coaching opportunities in the region, contact Rebecca Skinner on 01423 556782.

Updated: 10:21 Saturday, June 05, 2004