Slade lands top BBC award

By Mark Stevens

Exeter Chiefs and England star Henry Slade says he is “honoured” to have been named BBC South West Sports Personality of the Year.

The 22-year-old back has enjoyed another stellar 12 months, featuring not only for England during the Rugby World Cup, but helping the Chiefs to push onwards and upwards both in the Aviva Premiership and in European competition.

Such was his form during last term that he was named Young Player of the Year both at the Premiership Rugby and Rugby Players’ Association end of season awards.

Although currently sidelined with a broken leg, BBC Spotlight’s Natalie Cornah was on hand to present the award to Slade at his Exeter home last week.

Slade, who is currently recovering from a broken leg sustained just a few weeks ago, said: “I’ve really enjoyed the last few seasons at the Chiefs and we have been going from strength to strength. Obviously I’m disappointed not to be part of it all at the moment, but I hope to be back soon.

“Playing in the World Cup in the summer and being part of the England squad was awesome, but to get there you have to be doing well for your club. As I said, it’s been a massive team effort from all the lads, so without them I wouldn’t be picking up awards like this.”

Natalie added: “Henry has enjoyed a brilliant year, achieving so much during that time. What he has done with both the Chiefs and with England is fantastic and although he’s injured at the moment, we know it won’t be long before he’s back out there again doing what he does best.

“Our judging panel felt he was the outstanding candidate for this award, not just for his on-field performances, but also for the work he has done in highlighting how to cope with diabetes whilst still playing at the very top of his game.

“I know so many young, aspiring sports people look to Henry as a the perfect role model and having seen him do so well, they know they too can one day fulfil their own sporting dreams.”