SPORTING heroes, who saw years of hard work and dedication pay off at London 2012, were today named in the New Year Honours list.
Dave Brailsford, the performance director of British Cycling, is to be given a knighthood.
The 48-year-old, who lives in Ilkeston, was the man behind the seven gold medals won by the cycling team at this summer's games.
The accolade – for services to cycling and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games – comes just days after he was given the freedom of the borough of Erewash, capping a remarkable year.
Notts had its fair share of medalists at the 2012 Olympics, and that is recognised by the awards which are to be bestowed.
Etienne Stott and Tim Baillie, who won gold in the canoe slalom having trained together at the National Water Sports Centre, at Holme Pierrepont, are to receive MBEs for services to canoeing.
Etienne told the Post he was delighted with the honour.
He said: "I am really happy. I didn't really expect to receive anything like it, though there had been some talk about it.
"As an athlete, winning gold at the Olympics was the ultimate prize. It was an incredible moment.
"But having this award is a terrific honour for myself and Tim as well.
"It is great too for canoeing as a sport that this recognition has been received."
MBEs also go to three Paralympic gold medalists from the county – swimmer Oliver Hynd, athlete Richard Whitehead and dressage competitor Sophie Wells.
Oliver, 18, of Sutton-in-Ashfield, said it was the perfect way to round off his glorious year.
He said: "It is a massive honour. I feel really proud, it was something I really didn't expect."
As well as gold, Oliver also scooped a silver and bronze at the Aquatics Centre in London.
Along with others in the honours list, he first heard he was in line several weeks ago.
He said keeping quiet about his MBE for services to swimming was tough.
"When you are so excited about something, it isn't easy not telling people," he said. "But we were told we had to keep quiet.
"I am just so happy that I have been recognised in such a way. It is the best-possible way to end the year.
"Now I can turn my attention to next year and hopefully getting into the team for the world championships."
Lowdham runner Richard Whitehead receives his MBE for services to athletics.
The picture of him crossing the finishing line – arms aloft – to break the world record and claim gold in the T42 200m at the Paralympics was one of the enduring images of the games.
Sophie Wells, of Newark, claimed gold and two silvers in London.
She is given an MBE in recognition of services to equestrianism.
Dave Brailsford looks back on a memorable year. See Page 4.
