This one is for you, Grandad (From Echo)

This one is for you, Grandad

3:00am Friday 27th February 2009 in

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JONTY Clarke was named Echo Sports Personality of the Year.

And the Great Britain hockey star immediately dedicated the award to his unwell grandfather, Brian.

“He’s not too well at the amount and he’s done a tremendous amount of work around the Southend area,” said Clarke.

“He’s coached hockey for around 20 years and has had a big influence on me, so I would like to dedicate the award to him.”

Clarke, 28, helped Britain secure their highest Olympic place in 20 years when they took fifth place last summer in Beijing.

The winger scored twice in a 5-2 win over Korea and is still thrilled to have achieved a lifelong ambition.

“Ever since I was a youngster I wanted to play in the Olympics so to achieve it was fantastic,” said the Rochford-born Clarke, who began his career with Old Southendians.

“My family came out there to support me as well and I really do owe them a lot for everything they have done for me.”

Such fine form also led to Clarke winning the main award at the Sky Bar-based ceremony and he was delighted to pick up the prize.

“To win this and have people vote for me is a real honour,” said the former Southend High School pupil.

“To get recognition from my home town feels fantastic and I would like to say thank-you to my work BDO Stoy Hayward and my sponsors Mercian Hockey because without them I would be a very poor hockey player.”

Clarke followed in the foot-steps of his father Dick who remains England’s highest capped indoor player, to take up the sport.

And he is urging others to get involved.

“Hockey is a fantastic sport to be involved with,” said Clarke.

“If any parents want their children to play a sport which allows you to continue with your education at the same time then I strongly recommend that they push them towards hockey.”

Clarke finished ahead of Canvey Island FC manager John Batch and was handed his prize by Southend United captain Adam Barrett.

Full results: 1st Jonty Clarke, 2nd John Batch, 3rd Paul Benson, 4th Louisa Brownfield, 5th Dean Marney.