Oxford University student Aly Rowell was last night chosen as Oxford Sports Council's young sportsperson of the year.

Rowell has represented Great Britain in the Modern Pentathlon at junior level.

Lord Mayor Pat Stannard hands the trophy to Aly Rowell

Her aim is to represent Britain at the Olympics.

If successful in this, she would be following in the footsteps of Stephanie Cook who was the Young Sportsperson in 1996 and went on to win a gold medal in the Sydney Olympics.

Rowell received her award and a cheque for £250 from Oxford's Lord Mayor, Pat Stannard, at a packed OXSRAD hall.

The runner-up was Lawrence Lewis, the bantamweight from the Wolvercote Boxing Club. Third was Oxford University gymnast Dominic Siddall.

There was a special presentation in memory of Daniel Newton, who died during the year.

He was the disabled sportsperson of the year in 2000 and won every Challenger class competition in which he sailed.

In recognition of Daniel's achievements and courage, his father received a cheque for £250 and a framed photograph of his son sailing.

Team awards: Oxford Blackbird Boys and Girls FC Under 14s A; Oxford Blues Skater Hockey Club Storm - Under 12; Shikon Oxford (Karate).

Other awards - Contributing most to their sport: 1 M Glossop (judo), 2 J Koops (handball). Disabled Sportsperson: 1 K Tweddle (bowls).