Robertson sccops local award.

On the eve of Newcastle's 2005 season Jamie Robertson will be in action up at Armadale tonight (Friday,7.30pm start) riding for England against Scotland in the 3rd attempt to stage this meeting after previously being rained off at the end of the 2004 season.

But prior to this meeting Jamie has already received news of a pre-season boost by winning the prestigious "Young Sports Star North East" award run in association with the local BBC in Newcastle. This is a great achievement for the young lad who has made great progress since starting speedway at the age of 15, although previous to that he was Grasstracking from the age of 7.

He fought off stiff competition for this year's acolade from young sports men and women from all over the North East, competing in the diverse worlds of ski-ing, golf, athletics, netball, football, swimming and rowing to name but a few.

Jamie receives the award for his outstanding achievements thus far in his career, and for his undoubted dedication to the sport he loves. This is great recognition for Jamie, the club and for the sport.

Previous winners of this award include teenage rugby union star Adam Donaldson, international badminton player Caroline Smith and young boxer Douglas Curran.

Whilst Jamie is not known for his long acceptance speeches, he did manage to say last night, "It's really exciting to win this award, it's a big surprise and I feel very proud. I'd like to say a big thanks to all concerned in getting me this honour."

Jamie will receive his award at the formal Sports Council ceremonial dinner on Monday night in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, when the leading local BBC TV sports presenter, Jeff Brown will conduct proceedings.