WITH the prospect of becoming permanent England manager on the horizon Gareth Southgate could be forgiven for staying completely focussed on football.

But the former Three Lions international took some time out of his busy schedule to hand out awards to servicemen and women at RAF Benson.

The South Oxfordshire hosted its sports personality of the year awards on Thursday night and Mr Southgate was on hand to honour the winners.

Currently interim manager of England, he is expected be given the job full time by the FA in the coming weeks.

The former Aston Villa and Middlesbrough player presented the sports personality of the year award to Cpl Craig Lenane, captain of RAF Benson's cricket team.

Cpl Lenane oversaw a transition in the team's performance from a collection of individuals to a professional and well-motivated group of cricketers.

Station commander Gp Capt Hamish Cormack said: "Our sports awards are one of the highlights of the year.

"It is important that we formally recognise the achievements of those who go above and beyond to excel in their chosen sport

"All our award winners should be rightly proud of their fantastic achievements.

"Selecting the winners was a tremendously hard choice, and a genuine pleasure not a chore."

The most valued person award was presented to Flt Sgt Jon Radcliffe, chairman of the Benson Lions Football Club while the best newcomer prize went to SAC Siobhan Wasyliw, who was crowned best female lifter at the RAF powerlifting championships.

Sgt Craig Moorhouse, who coaches Benson Lions Cubs under-11s was handed the coach of the year award.

Mr Southgate was joined at the ceremony by Air Vice-Marshal Gavin Parker, who was visiting RAF Benson for the second time in as many days.

He told nominees: "The thing that struck me about all of the nominations is the level of effort and commitment, the selflessness from you all.

"As a result of your efforts we all live a richer life because this is what service life is all about."

Flt Sgt Matt Larkin was also among the prizes, picking up the long service to sport award for his 40 years worth of water-skiing while the team of the year prize went to the running and athletics team.

The team won the President's Cup and inter-station event as well as hosting cross country and road race events at the base.