MORE than 40 Renfrewshire sportsmen and women were recognised at a special event in Paisley hosted by Provost Celia Lawson a decade ago. 

The event, held in the Watermill Hotel, congratulated local sporting heroes from the age of 12 upwards on their achievements that year. 

Among the many sports represented at the event were badminton, hockey, tennis, athletics, rowing, swimming and cycling.

READ MORE: Public loos in Johnstone dumped as residents protest

Some of the achievements honoured included Michael Bremner, of Kelburne Hockey Club, who was the Scottish Under-18 Player of the Year, and Kirsty Hiddleston, of Castle Semple Rowing Club, who won a gold medal at the Scottish Rowing Championships. 

Also attending the event was Special Olympics judo gold medallist Brian Thomson, from Renfrew, who had the honour of being chosen to carry the Olympic torch on part of its journey to Beijing. 

At a meeting of Renfrewshire Council all parties agreed to congratulate the team’s outstanding performance and call for further investment in Scottish sport to ensure more Scottish success. 

Provost Lawson said at the time: “I am extremely proud of all the excellent sporting achievements of individuals and teams here in Renfrewshire. 

“Local sportsmen and women have won medals, broken records and been chosen to represent their country over the past year. 

READ MORE: Smart Johnstone schoolgirl scooped gong for computer skills

“I’d also like to pay tribute to the work of coaches, parents and volunteers who have played a vital role in developing sporting talent in Renfrewshire. 

“We are all now looking forward to London 2012 and Glasgow 2014.”