THE Sportsperson of the Year awards recognise those who do great work either in competing in their event or in ensuring others have the opportunity to realise their potential.

The Evening Times is proud to be involved with the awards and to sponsor three awards - Disabled Athlete of the Year, Young Sports Person of the Year and Volunteer of the Year.

Every one of the finalists deserves praise for their efforts and we hope they go on to achieve even more success in the years to come.

This year is the biggest year ever for sport in Glasgow with the Commonwealth Games bringing the very best athletes to our city.

It is also the opportunity to inspire the city's young and old to get involved in a sport or physical activity to improve our health as individuals and as a city.

That's why the Evening Times has launched its Active 2014 campaign to encourage people to take up some exercise. No matter how small the steps are, they are the first steps to a healthier future.

Tonight's awards are the first ­opportunity this year to recognise those in Glasgow making a difference through sport.

As the year goes on, there will be more opportunities for everyone to get active and ensure the Glasgow of the future is a fitter and healthier city of which we can all be proud.