Well-known local athlete and former Beverley club member Darran Bilton presented the prizes as the club reflected on a busy 2009.

The coveted Runner of the Year trophy was won by James Pearson, Beverley AC’s current star male runner.

Since joining the club two years ago, Pearson has enjoyed considerable success, as the first Beverley runner to finish in numerous road races and recording a string of personal best times.

He has also represented his club in the English, National and County cross-country championships and has been a reliable and consistent member of the cross-country team in the East Yorkshire Cross-Country League.

Julie Donald was runner-up in this category. She won all four distance trophies as the fastest lady over 10 km, 10 miles, half and full marathon distances - the first time one person has held all four titles.

Darren Williams, James Pearson, Jonathan Leskiewicz and Ian Boardley were awarded trophies as the fastest men at these distances.

Competition for the male performance of the year trophy was very strong. Nominations included Mike Blamires, who had completed the Marathon des Sables, a 151-mile endurance event spread over six days in the Sahara Desert, and Charlie Culpan, who completed the Paras 10-mile challenge carrying a 35lb bergen.

But the award went to Pete Watkinson who ran an amazing 105 miles in the Hull 24-hour race at Costello Stadium.

Jayne Dale received the trophy for the best female performance of the year for her excellent run in the Brass Monkey half-marathon in York, where she covered the 13.1 miles in one hour and 42 minutes.

Meanwhile the prize for the best female performance in a marathon went to Tanwen Gray. Only seven months after giving birth and competing in her very first marathon, Gray finished the Edinburgh Marathon in three hours 47 minutes.

Club veterans Kay Farrow and Steve Peacock took the titles for most improved runners and Peacock also won the male marathon performance award for running the Abingdon Marathon in two hours 52 minutes.

Lucy Stamford and Andy Johnson were voted the most promising new members.

In the club handicap series Kay Farrow was the winner and Sam Allen and Andy Grainger were awarded trophies for second and third positions.

Seven members were also recognised for winning individual handicap races.