A PE teacher has been honoured at an awards ceremony for his work keeping children active.

Alan Proudfoot, of Burnham Primary School, received a ‘Highly Commended’ prize at the Active Essex Sports Awards.

Mr Proudfoot was nominated in the Education Champion of the Year at the ceremony at Chelmsford City Racecourse.

A school spokesman said: “Over the past four years, Mr Proudfoot has developed an outstanding sports curriculum for the pupils at our school and has increased participation in clubs.

“He has also helped to provide opportunities which are available to all of our children.

“Mr Proudfoot leads sport across the school but he is always keen to thank the staff and volunteers who help him.”

The spokesman added: “Sport has become a large and important part of Burnham Primary School, from the daily mile and PE to sports clubs and competitive tournaments.

“We are so glad that all of his hard work has been recognised by not only staff but by the parents who nominated him and by the Active Essex Team.

“It was a very prestigious event and to even be nominated was a great achievement for our school.

“It was humbling to see the dedication of the sportsmen and women showcased and to celebrate the important work which takes place from a lifetime of work in sport to life-changing work with the most vulnerable in our county.

“A huge thank you to all of the parents for your support over the past four years and a special thank you to those who nominated Mr Proudfoot.”

Active Essex hosts the annual awards which celebrate the outstanding sporting achievements of our many clubs, groups, coaches, schools, workplaces, athletes and volunteers throughout the county.

For the 2019 competition, 627 nominations were received.

Active Essex chairman Azeem Akhtar said: “It is crucial we celebrate not only our county’s sporting achievements but also the individuals and organisations encouraging participation at every level.”