The sporting achievements of local people and organisations were celebrated at Ayrshire Sportsability's seventh annual charity ball in the Princess Royal Suite, Ayr Racecourse.

As part of the ball celebrations, Ayrshire Sportsability presented awards which promote and applaud local achievements in sports for children and young people with a disability, and the organisations and individuals who support them. Awards were presented in the following categories: Activity in the Community Award 2011 sponsored by Alf Hatton Associates Winner - Scott Thomson, Ace Racerunning Club, Ayr Runners up - ACE Activity Centre, Girvan and Sofa Club, Cumnock and Kilmarnock.

Most Active School 2011 sponsored by Wai Beyond Winner - Invergarven School, Girvan Runners up - Hillside School, Cumnock and Greenwood Academy, Irvine.

Young Athlete Award 2012 sponsored by South Ayrshire Council Winner - Gavin Drysdale, Ayr Grammar Primary School� Runners up - Laura Logan, Kayleigh Haggo and Connor McAdam Ayrshire Sportsability / Sportscotland Disability Coach Award 2011� Winner - Joan O Sullivan, Sports for Special Needs Some of the charity's supporters received recognition for their ongoing support. These included: Scottish Disability Sport, South Ayrshire Council, Sportscotland, East Ayrshire Council, Alister Firth Photography, Kilmarnock College, Alf Hatton Associates and Rumble TV.

Former provosts Stephanie Young (East Ayrshire) and Winifred Sloan (South Ayrshire) received honorary lifetime memberships for their commitment and support over the years.

This years guests included representatives from local businesses, councils, health service, elected members, voluntary organisations and award winners. The event, including a charity auction and raffle, raised more than �12,000 for the charity. Local businesses and individuals supported the ball by providing sponsorship, raffle prizes and donations for the auction.

Dr Wai-yin Hatton, Chair of Ayrshire Sportsability, commented: "I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this year's ball. Everyone had a brilliant night and managed to raise another fantastic amount of money which will continue to make a real difference by providing sporting opportunities for children and young people with a disability.

"For the fourth year now Ayrshire Sportsability awards have highlighted local sporting achievements and on behalf of Ayrshire Sportsability, I would like to congratulate everyone who was nominated." Dr Hatton added: "I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has supported Ayrshire Sportsability in the past. We are celebrating our eleventh year of offering children and young people with disabilities more opportunities to try sporting activities. Over the years we have watched youngsters develop sporting talents and experiencing increased confidence. It has been extremely worthwhile and we look forward to providing even more opportunities in the next 11 years." For information on Ayrshire Sportsability and details of next year's ball, please contact Dianne Campbell, Ayrshire Sportsability Co-ordinator, Eglinton House, Ailsa Hospital, Dalmellington Road, Ayr or email admin@ayrshiresportsability.org.uk