A number of sporting personalities were on hand at the ceremony, including Dickie Bird, Derek Dooley, Darren Gough, John Ryan, Howard Webb, Sheffield Steelers team, John Hall, Lee Westwood, Brian Laws, Jessica Ennis, Paul Goodison, Ryan Rhodes, Sarah Stevenson, Ed Clancy, and Johnny Nelson.

A spokesman for the goup said: "The Lions and Warriors group were amazed at all the sporting personalities attending.

"They were overwhelmed and humbled to be invited to such a glitzy evening where they thoroughly enjoyed mixing with all the celebrities and having their pictures taken with Dickie Bird, Christa Ackroyd (compere) and the Sheffield Steelers, who were so warm and friendly and wanted to meet all the lads and learn a little more about them."

They added: "When it came to the Disabled Section 2008, they gave out a loud cheer when their football teams were mentioned and the spotlight was on their table."

The winner of the this section was awarded to John Hall who won a bronze medal at the Beijing Paralympics.

Members of the Thorne Family Support Group, providing sport and leisure activities for people with special needs (ages 6 years to 51 years), are passionate about football.

"They show that whatever your disability, everyone can enjoy playing football.

"Just to be on the shortlist for this award was like winning the World Cup to them."

Other awards on the night were - Unsung Hero; Professional Sports Award; Amateur Sports Award; Young Achiever; Lighting the Flame; Sports Business; Sports Personality of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award.