'Inspirational' 75 year old cyclist nominated for BBC East Unsung Sports Hero

A Milton Keynes cyclist who set up clubs for all ages and abilities, and acted as a tireless ambassador for the sport, has been nominated as one of the three finalists in this year's BBC East Unsung Sports Hero.

His friends describe him as a 'true enthusiast' and an 'inspiration', and in his 60 years of riding, starting in 1948 when he was 11, 75 year old Phil Ashbourne volunteered to set up national cycling paths and created the local branch of the CTC.

He said: "I think we do need to question what resources we put into cycling. It's a wonderful year for cycling - I never thought in my lifetime we'd have a Tour de France winner.

"It's kind of a reward to see people like Wiggins come through the system."

To see a video of Phil in action, click here.

The Unsung Hero category is part of the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year, for which Bradley Wiggins is nominated this year, alongside Sarah Storey and Chris Hoy.

It is awarded for the outstanding work they have carried out in their local sporting communities. It would be the first time that a cyclist had won the Unsung Hero category since the awards began.