County athletics award for Harrison

The award, which is given to the Warwickshire athlete who produces the most outstanding performance of the season, was presented to Harrison in recognition of her IAU 50k World Final success.

Harrison smashed the British record by more than three minutes in winning in Galway, establishing a new World Masters best in the process.

Coventry Godiva athlete Devonish was a European Championships and Common-wealth Games sprint finalist and gold medalist in the 4x100m relay, while fellow 4x100m gold medalist Mark Lewis-Francis was also a strong contender after winning individual silver medals in the European Championships and Commonwealth Games 100m.

Commonwealth gold silver medalists Nadine Okyere and Meghan Beesley were also in the running for the award.

Harrison, who was crowned Warwick District Sports Personality Of The Year in November, said the award capped a remarkable season.

“2010 has been a most memorable year for me,” she said. “I would like to thank my coach Les Barnett, who has stood by me and supported me for the last 24 years, taking me from a school cross-country runner to number one.

“The support from Warwick Sports and LA Fitness in Warwick has been invaluable to me, as has the encouragement from my club, Leamington C&AC, and my family.

“I’m now looking forward to new challenges in 2011.”