NOMINATIONS are being sought to recognise Bolton's sporting stars ahead of the deadline.

Top sportsmen and women will be honoured at the annual Bolton Active Sports Awards, held on September 16 at the Macron Stadium.

But nominations for the awards close on Thursday, with a wide range of categories showcasing the best of Bolton.

Organisers are seeking Bolton’s best coach or instructor; club or class; volunteer in sport; young volunteer; unsung hero; sports achiever; disabled sports achiever; junior sports team achievement; and senior sports team achievement. There will also be a changing lifestyle recognition award.

One of last year's winners was cricketer Josh Bohannon, who won the sports achiever award for hitting more than 1,000 runs for Lancashire, making him the top run scorer in the country at U17s county level.

The awards will feature former Bolton Wanderers captain Kevin Davies and his wife Emma as special guests, with Bolton FM's Matt Holden hosting proceedings.

Activities on the night will include table tennis, golf, archery and basketball. There will also be a three course meal, a variety of performances, a magician and disco.

Earlier in the day, in a separate ceremony, the borough’s schoolchildren will be honoured at the Primary School Sports Awards.

Bolton Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Youth and Sport, Cllr John Byrne, said: “Some of the borough’s biggest and best achievements in the sporting world will take centre stage at this year’s awards ceremony.

“Bolton has a fantastic network of sports teams and physical activities, and it’s encouraging to know that so many people enjoy taking part and keeping fit. Not only that, there are scores of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure things run smoothly, including coaches, mentors and volunteers.

“The sports awards are an ideal opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate each other’s achievements. It’s going to be a great night and we appreciate all the support from our awards sponsors who enable us to pay tribute in this way.”

To make an award nomination visit www.bolton.gov.uk/sportinbolton.

Tickets are also available to buy from the Decathlon Bolton store and Castle Hill Centre, priced £27.50 for adults and £14 for children.