SPORTING all-rounder Josh Rees was thrilled to be named Junior Sports Personality of the Year.

The 15-year-old from Hadleigh enjoyed a tremendous 2008 and secured success in a range of sports.

Josh played football for England under-16s team twice as they retained their home international Victory Shield.

He also appeared for Arsenal and was a key member of Southend High’s national title winning Track and Field and Cross-Country teams.

Such a long list of achievements made Josh a worthy winner.

And he was thrilled to pick up the award.

“I’m so pleased and excited to have won,” said Josh, who was handed his trophy by snooker star Stuart Bingham.

“It’s been a great year for me and I have enjoyed some great moments.

“Playing for England has to be the best because that’s something you always dream of but we had national success with school as well which was brilliant to be a part of.”

Josh’s headteacher at Southend High School for Boys, Robin Bevan, also attended the awards along with the school’s head of PE Steve Thomas.

He has helped Josh make the most of his talents and the youngster was keen to express his gratitude.

“I really do owe a lot of people a big thank you,” he confirmed.

“My parents have been very supportive of me and so have my school and my club.

“I would also like to thank the Echo for this award and all the readers of the newspaper who voted for me.

“I really appreciate it and I’m thrilled to have won,” Josh said.

Results: 1st Joshua Rees, 2nd Georgia Atkins, 3rd Jo-Jo Cranfield, 4th Jessica Judd, 5th Sophie Fitzgerald.