A BOXING legend received a standing ovation as he went up on stage to receive the Sporting Hero award.

Boxing coach Ian Irwin touched a lot of people in the room with his moving speech.

“I just wanted to say thank you for all of your support,” he said.

“I’ve been involved in the sport for many many years, and despite my eyesight I still go to the gym every week.”

A man who went on to be the GB coach at a number of Olympic Games and also at the Commonwealth games, Mr Irwin has been described by many as 'an inspiration'.

“Barrow you must keep going,” said Mr Irwin,”boxing is the sport that can sort the men out from the boys and it teaches them the confidence they need.”

Holehird Care Home volunteer Barbara Russell was chosen as Volunteer of the Year at this year’s awards ceremony.

“I never thought I would be in a shot of getting the award,” she said.

“But I simply love volunteering, it’s absolutely smashing, and I would say that if anyone wanted to do it I would highly recommend it.

“I’m fit and healthy and I love being able to help people less fortunate.”

Mrs Russell spends two days a week helping in the residents’ lounge with the crossword games as well as making drinks and chatting to everyone.

Described as part of the Holehird family, Mrs Russell always has a smile on her face.

Other finalists for Volunteer of the Year were Eddie Harrison, Kendal Mountain Rescue volunteer and Patricia Hovey, secretary of Kendal Civic Society.