THE inspiration behind one of the North-East's oldest cricket clubs was last night named as the Local Hero of 2002. Norman Sturman won the overall award at The Northern Echo's prestigious Local Heroes Awards 2002, powered by npower.

Around 600 guests from the world of grass roots sport applauded as Norman, of Haughton Cricket Club in Darlington, picked up the honour at the Tall Trees Hotel, near Yarm.

Competing against scores of nominations spanning a wide range of sports as well as age ranges, Norman was selected as the main winner in the event which has become known as "The Oscars" of grass roots sport.

The judges chose Norman because he has invested a lifetime in playing grass roots sport as well as working tirelessly behind the scenes.

He was a good footballer, winning the North Riding Cup in 1954 with North Skelton Athletic. He also played for Billingham Synthonia, Whitby Town and Sheffield Wednesday reserves before injury curtailed his footballing career.

But it was his passion for cricket which most impressed the judges.

He started playing for Hinderwell in East Cleveland as a 15-year-old and since 1965 has been involved with Haughton Cricket Club in Darlington.

Now 67, he officially quit playing last year but has carried on with the occasional game.

A feared fast bowler, his best year was 1978 when he took 102 wickets.

But he has proved even more valuable to the club off the field, working tirelessly behind the scenes in all kinds of ways, tending to the pitch, raising funds, and securing sponsorship.

When the club was hit by a devastating fire, Norman played a key role in helping it to rise from the ashes.

The judges described Norman as "the embodiment of everything that is good about grass roots sport - commitment, passion, and a true gentleman".

The stars of professional sport, including Newcastle Falcons Director of Rugby Rob Andrew, Newcastle full-back Liam Botham, and Sunderland footballers Tore Andre Flo and Stephen Wright were guests at the event.