Pete Branson, the Chair of SYCSA was nominated by Ian & Joy York for the BBC West "Unsung Hero" at the BBC West Sports Awards of the Year 2007.

In a close run final, he narrowly missed out to Jules for her work with Girls Football in Eastville in Bristol.

Pete has been with SYCSA for over 30 years, having started on a Level 1 Course in 1975, eventually progressing to become a Senior Instructor and the Chair of the Association.

At the glittering awards evening sponsored by Robinsons and hosted by the BBC at the Marriot Royal Hotel in Bristol, Pete & his wife Lyn were entertained to a champagne reception and a magnificent meal amongst the sports men and women of the West.

Pete is seen here with Phil de Glanville former England Rugby Captain, who presented the award.

The "Unsung Hero" nomination was made in recognition of Pete's work for SYCSA over last 20 years and in particular the last 10 years, during which time he has raised over £40,000 in sponsorship to enable the Association to expand youth and community sailing to all, increase its Instructor and volunteer base, update its fleet of boats, and go from strength to strength.

He commented "each finalist deserved recognition for their work but only one could win, it was a privilege to represent sailing and SYCSA".