A Largs man has gone the extra mile in promoting athletics, and won a prestigious ambassadors award for his running feats and charity achievements around the UK.

Ian Rutherford has been endorsed by his fellow club members for being ‘a true inspriation for members young and old’, and promoting the good name of the club.

This is the first year of the new honour, and the selection was made against a host of ‘fantastic athletes who travel the land representing the athletics club wherever they race’. Ian, 43, has been a long serving member of staff at Nardini’s at the Moorings at Largs, and his athletics achievements have regularly appeared in the ‘News’ over the years.

The club website stated: “It is fitting that this year’s winner is a true gentleman and a real inspiration to all members young and old. Ian Rutherford admitted he was truly shocked and humbled to be presented with the award, at the seniors’ prizegiving night in Kilwinning, and is truly honoured to have been chosen by his peers.

“Ian travels in 2014 have taken him to races at Bishopbriggs, Glengarnock, Balfron, Troon, Clydebank, Dumbarton, Kirkintilloch, Leeds, Irvine, Cumbrae and Birmingham after which he attended the official opening of the new Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre run by the University of Glasgow. Ian’s adventures also raised a fantastic £720 for the Beatson Pebble Appeal.

“So there you have it, the bar has been set, and future recipients have a lot to live up to. If they can do it with the style and benevolence Ian has displayed, then North Ayrshire Atheltics Club will be the winner.” “As the club expands and improves, it continue to set milestones and boasts a strong team of coaches and assistants and an expanding group of parent helpers who give up their valuable time week after week.

“We are all pushing in the same direction and the efforts of our athletes to spread the word and carry our reputation far and wide is now recognised by the Club Ambassador Award, kindly sponsored by Advertisign Direct, Dalry.” The adult section of North Ayrshire Atheltics Club train on Monday and Thursday evenings throughout the year, and the club participates in many running events throughout the region including regular 5k and 10ks to improve your fitness.

For more details about joining the North Ayrshire Athletics Club, ask Ian Rutherford for more details, or go to their website http://naathletics.co.uk/