Commonwealth Games gold medallists Paul and Joanna Drinkhall have been named Teesside’s sports Team of the Year.

The couple, who led an England clean sweep of the medals in the mixed doubles in Glasgow, won the accolade at the 17th annual Gazette Sports Awards.

The ceremony was held at Middlesbrough FC’s Riverside Stadium last night, close to Paul’s home town of Loftus.

They were unable to attend the ceremony, but Paul said: “It’s great to win something else with Jo. It’s a shame we couldn’t get along to the ceremony but we’re very thankful for the recognition.”

Meanwhile, Liam Pitchford, who won three medals in Glasgow including singles bronze, is on a shortlist of four athletes for Sportsperson of the Year at the Derbyshire Sports Awards.

He is up against swimmer Adam Peaty, shooter Caroline Povey and hurdler Will Sharman. The winner will be announced on November 6.

Paul Stimpson
October 24, 2014