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Why the 主播大秀 Get Inspired Unsung Hero award means so much

Graeme Chilvers

Health & Recreation Manager

Denise Shannon, last year's winner, and Graeme Chilvers

Denise Shannon has had quite a year since being named 2017 主播大秀 Get Inspired Unsung Hero at the 主播大秀 Sports Personality of the Year show in Liverpool. But it might have been a very different year were it not for Graeme Chilvers, Health and Recreation Manager for Hinckley and Bosworth Borough Council, in Leicestershire, who nominated Denise in the first place.

Denise had been on my radar: we knew her since before 2012. We worked with her about carrying the Olympic torch.

She really puts herself out. You can see the difference she makes - everybody has something positive to say about her.

I'm a for , I trained Denise up to be a walk leader.

You see the impact, especially with young people and their education - teachers say young people involved in sport have a better attitude to life. They focus more and work their way through problems and get success.

Volunteers are the heartbeat and lifeblood of sport in this country, it's nice to highlight the difference they make. Every year we acknowledge the young coaches coming through.

Young coaches are absolutely amazing. Every Tuesday morning, has activities for those affected by cancer. In the holidays young coaches come through and help out.

We always look for, encourage and engage with young volunteers. There are lots of roles to do. It’s all about partnerships - getting out into your community and knowing your community. If local authorities can do that it makes a big difference.

Our winners just don't just win [Graham also nominated 2012 主播大秀 Get Inspired Unsung Hero award winners Sue and Jim Houghton] - they go on to do . They're the superstars - I'm just lucky to be the storyteller.

Sport in this country wouldn't happen without these volunteers - it's a fantastic way to acknowledge and thank them for the work they do.

For the first time, nominations can be made via video and audio submission. To nominate your Unsung Hero by video, audio, online webform or via email to unsunghero@bbc.co.uk, visit . Entries close on Sunday 21 October at midnight and the shortlist will be revealed in the days leading up to the 主播大秀 Sports Personality of the Year ceremony in December.

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