I WAS flattered to be invited to join the panel for the annual southwest sports awards again this year.

It often takes events like these to make us aware of what talent we have in the region and just how many sports are represented at international level. However it is the people and support networks behind the scenes that really are overlooked, which is why the sporting unsung hero is such an important award.

I finished this week with another successful and enjoyable sporting Sunday. I relished the change from running and fencing competitions to compete in only my second swimming gala since leaving school. While writing I'm still buzzing from racing in Bristol where I was honoured to represent Devon masters in several sprint events at the inter-county championships. I must admit I still feel too young to compete in master's events but after watching Devon's swimmer of the year — a gentleman in his 70s — beating most half his age, I'd like to think I have a few years left in me yet!

The last two nights I experienced an unusual role reversal within the family; I hosted my parents at my flat in Bath. This involved me attempting to cook my first-ever chicken. I didn't set out with the intention of cooking a chicken, but after buying what I thought was a ready roasted one I discovered to my disappointment that it was raw.

After many opinions and varied advice I set about my preparation. You can imagine my confusion (which soon changed to relief) when I realised it came in a bag ready for the oven. I must admit I did feel a little naughty cheating but it was worth it just for the look on my father's face when I produced a 'chicken in a bag' from the roasting oven. We all lived to tell the tale — even if my cooking skills have a little developing to do.