The founder of a Preston-based inclusive rugby club has won a national sporting hero award.

Lawrence Howard, who is founder and coach at Typhoons RUFC, is the grand prize winner of SPAR’s People’s Podium campaign.

Lawrence won the award after SPAR invited people from across the nation to nominate local sporting heroes who had a positive impact on their community.

Lawrence was chosen for his work at Typhoons, Lancashire’s first inclusive rugby team, who play at Preston Grasshoppers.

TV presenter Andi Peters and staff from SPAR surprised Lawrence with the award and a cheque for £10,000 during a presentation earlier this month.

A SPAR spokesperson said: “It was a real celebration with the whole community coming together to celebrate what Lawrence has done for rugby in his local area.

“Lawrence was nominated and eventually awarded the grand prize because of his dedication to the Typhoons RUFC and helping bring together a community through rugby.”

Lawrence said: “It’s become obvious that inclusive clubs can be in every community and not limited to big cities. What we’ve seen tonight is a perfect example of how an inclusive rugby club can inspire people from all backgrounds to take up the game.

“It’s such an honour to even be nominated, just to know you’ve had an impact on someone’s life.

“This money will go towards helping us grow the club, providing funds for training equipment and travel to tournaments.”

Louise Hoste, SPAR UK Managing Director said: “Well done to Lawrence and all of our runners up. They epitomise the type of people we look to recognise with this award and they deserve to be celebrated.

“As a local convenience store business we are proud to be able to reward grassroots sporting heroes where our SPAR stores are situated. We would also like to thank everyone for their nominations. This year’s campaign was an outstanding success; with a record number of contenders.”

For more information on Typhoons RUFC, visit their Facebook page.

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