Seven inspiring people from the world of sport have been inducted into the Stoke-on-Trent Sporting Hall of Fame.

The local sporting heroes were honoured at a special induction ceremony at Stoke Town Hall today (Friday 9 October).

The new inductees represent a variety of sports, including football, martial arts, cricket and endurance sport - alongside volunteers who have helped develop grassroots sport in their communities.

Several of the athletes and coaches have also represented both the city and the country at the highest levels.

Councillor Joan Bell, Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, said: "Our latest inductees into the Sporting Hall of Fame have given their talent and commitment to sport both locally and on the international stage and we are proud to honour them all with a place in this esteemed list of sporting stars.

"The new inductees have represented their city and country on the international stage, inspired future generations through grassroots sport and helped keep local audiences connected to sport through decades of broadcasting and reporting.

"Their achievements are inspiring to all of us in Stoke-on-Trent and it is a privilege to honour them and celebrate their individual legacies."

The City of Stoke-on-Trent Sporting Hall of Fame (image via Nub News)

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The seven people that have been inducted are:

• Tara Burndred – Multiple Ju Jitsu World Champion, international competitor and respected coach who has developed generations of martial artists.
• Clive Dean – Long-serving grassroots football volunteer whose work with Ladsandads and local clubs has supported young people in sport for more than 50 years.
• Gary Hall MBE – Former British Taekwondo Champion and Performance Director of GB Taekwondo, who has helped lead the sport to Olympic and world success.
• Nigel Johnson – Former BBC Radio Stoke sports broadcaster whose commentary and reporting covered local sport for more than five decades.
• Dave Juggins – World Duathlon Champion and multiple European medallist who has represented England and Great Britain in endurance sport.
• Kieron McKinney – England disability cricketer, Ashes competitor and multi-sport athlete who has achieved success at national and international level.
• Neil McPherson – Dedicated sports figure recognised for his outstanding contribution and service to sport.

The names of the inductees have now joined a list of sporting icons including Sir Stanley Matthews, Phil Taylor and Gordon Banks.

Upon accepting his recognition, local broadcasting legend Nigel Johnson said: "This is a great honour because I never thought that i would have my name appearing on this wonderful wall - I have admired the names of the people that are there and I have praised them for what they have contributed to sport within this area."

He added: "I wish this city and every sporting person in it every success in the years to come."

Nigel Johnson accepting his award at Stoke Town Hall (image via Nub News)