A former Rangers footballer and Scotland international is urging people to recognise the unsung heroes who are the lifeblood of sporting clubs.

Steven Thompson - who played for the Ibrox club from 2003 to 2006 - reckons the volunteers who help to run such clubs deserve a top award as he lends his support to the Renfrewshire Sports Awards 2017.

The awards aim to showcase the dedication and hard work of local sports club coaches, volunteers, officials, and youngsters.

Now a TV and radio sports pundit, 38-year-old Steven, who grew up and still lives in Renfrewshire, described the importance of recognising “vital” volunteers.

He added: “It’s brilliant that these men and women who give up their time to coach kids and run sports clubs are getting the recognition they deserve with these awards.

“I got involved playing football with the Boys Brigade and then I joined Gleniffer Thistle and it was volunteers who ran these youth teams.

“They are the unsung heroes of sport at grassroots level and I hope people take the time to nominate someone.”

The ex-St Mirren abd Dundee United player continued: “Both my son and my daughter are involved in sports; Struan plays tennis and football and Gracie does gymnastics.

“It’s great for youngsters to get involved and they can learn from what their coaches are telling them. But the most important thing is that they enjoy what they are doing.”

Award categories are Community Coach of the Year, Development Coach of the Year, Young Coach of the Year, and Disability Coach of the Year.

There are also awards for Technical Official of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, and Event Volunteer of the Year.

And for school sports, there is an Honour Our Sport Award.

Nominations are open until June 30 and can be made at www.renfrewshiresportsawards.com.