POINT-TO-POINT stalwart Dick Pike has had his effort recognised with a national award.

Pike, from Kilpeck, was presented with the Cynthia Higgon Award for services to the sport by the Point-to-Point Authority.

For five decades, Pike has been in the thick of the point-to-point action, from preparation of the course at Garnons to the taking of entries.

He has also been secretary of both the South Herefordshire Hunt fixture and the Welsh Border Point-to-Point Secretaries Association (PPSA), as well as partnering his own horses between the flags for more than 30 years.

Stalwarts, such as Willie Peep, Rupert Withy, Sound Golly, Sea Patrol and the Hearty Joker, have given Pike 'great spins' and some memorable moments, including a hard-slogging victory in the Pentyrch four-mile 'national'.

"Dick has worked so hard for the sport for so long, but he was surprised and shocked to be recognised for it," said Liz Morgans, who took over as PPSA secretary when Pike retired. The first fixture of the year will take place at Garnons on Sunday, March 6.