Cumnock Juniors Community Enterprise's (CJCE) Derek King was recently crowned the winner of the Scottish Assocation of Local Sports Councils (SALSC) award.

CJCE facilities manager, Derek triumphed at the East Ayrshire Sports Council Awards - after almost 30 years of service in Cumnock.

East Ayrshire’s most talented athletes, sports clubs and volunteers were celebrated and recognised for their sporting success and contribution.

Auchinleck's Bowls Scotland representative, Hannah Smith and Claire Johnstone, were also among those recognised for their performance at the Commonwealth Games earlier this year.

This is the first time that the event has taken place in three years due to the COVID pandemic.

This year saw over 40 athletes being supported through the Talented Athlete Support Programme with all athletes being National or International Champions, or representing their country in their chosen sport.

Cumnock Chronicle: Some of the other award winners (Image: East Ayrshire Council)Some of the other award winners (Image: East Ayrshire Council) (Image: East Ayrshire Council)

Derek has been vital to the success of the CJCE over recent years, putting in tireless work to help the community.

A CJCE spokesperson was delighted about Derek's triumph.

They said: "Derek has played a crucial role at Cumnock Juniors youth being a coach and picked up various different roles for over the last 29 years. He also set up a very successful walking football scheme and all ability sport and cycling.

"He is also the match secretary for the youth football leagues for the last 24 years. This is only some of the positive work Derek does and it is clear to say he is a man with many talents.

"We would just like to say we appreciate all your hard work and dedication you give to CJCE and all the teams under our umbrella and how much you give back to this community".

Cumnock Juniors 2009s were also named as a finalist in the Team Performance of the Year category.

Councillor Linda Holland, Co-Vice Chair of the East Ayrshire Sports Council, added: “With so many athletes being supported, it really does demonstrate that East Ayrshire can produce and will continue to produce top class athletes through their hard work, determination and commitment."