Heather Fell, Olympic modern pentathlete silver medalist, writes about her life 'on and off' the track.

IT is already that time of year when the achievements of the summer are being reflected on and various awards are being presented.

Last week saw the Sunday Times sportswoman awards start the flow of these glitzy events with the poster girl of the Olympic Games, Jessica Ennis, winning the top accolade.

On a far smaller budget and minus any glamour the judging of the BBC Southwest sports awards took place in Plymouth. It was an honour to be invited back to the panel but also quite a responsibility as the shortlist was full of phenomenal athletes and inspiring performances.

I must not give anything away but I think it doesn't take a genius to guess there will be a dominance of Olympic sporting achievements.

That said we must not forget the Westcountry's team sports and to prove this we saw yet another fine example from the Exeter Chiefs this weekend. Not only did a young team secure a very comfortable win in their first LV cup game of the season, two Exeter players scored trys in the autumn internationals for England and Argentina respectively.

I am slightly embarrassed to admit that it has taken me this long but at last, after passing it numerous times I have ventured into Plymouth's Life Centre. I was amazed at what lay behind those walls, how lucky we are to have such an amazing facility on our doorstep. I would recommend visiting and if you are really lucky you might even get a hug from Olympic diver Tom Daley — although I cannot guarantee it!