A CRICKET stalwart is in the running to win a competition which recognises unsung heroes in his favourite sport.

John Charlson, who has spent 60 years as club secretary of Atherton Cricket Club, is up for winning wine company's Hardys Heartbeat of the Club award for his lifetime of commitment.

The award attracts hundreds of nominations from club cricketers across the UK and has been narrowed down to a shortlist of 11 people by a judging panel which includes England bowler Stuart Broad.

John has coached cricket to youngsters throughout his life and will retire this year.

He said: “I first went to Atherton Cricket Club when I was five days old and I’m proud to see it in it’s now present state.

"The club has been my life and I’ve enjoyed every minute.

"It has been 60 years of sheer enjoyment and all the events will be remembered by me for the rest of my life.”

The winner of the award will win a fully stocked Hardys Pavilion, a mobile wine bar, for their club's end of season party with an England cricket legend invited to join the event.

England cricketer and Hardys Wine ambassador Stuart Broad added: “As someone who grew up playing cricket at my local club I understand the importance of those who give their time to keep their club running.

"It’s great that Hardys Wine are looking to reward the heartbeats of UK club cricket and I’m delighted to support this campaign.

"Congratulations to John Charlson for being shortlisted and I wish him every luck in the public vote.”

The public vote is open until midnight on Monday.

To vote for John visit hardyswines.com/winthehardyspavilion.