Time to tie down Mr Pompey

If anyone needed proof of how sport bonds a community, they need look no further than the seventh News Sports Awards.

Last night, at Portsmouth Guildhall, the real heroes of the area's rich sporting tapestry were recognised.

It was fitting, therefore, that two of Pompey's most conscientious players were there to revel in other people's achievement.

Perhaps more than anybody at the club, David James and Linvoy Primus appreciate what goes on away from the football field.

And like everybody else, they cheered Paralympic gold medallist Dan Bentley, stood and applauded Fareham's late boxing coach Derek Hoile and were amazed when they heard how amputee Spike Westbrook plays for Manchester United and competes with his able-bodied peers in the Portsmouth Sunday League.

Those are just three heroes plucked from the evening (for the full pull-out see Friday's News).

James met scores of children and was genuinely 'buzzing' when, to his surprise, he picked up Best Sportsman to go with his Pompey Player of the Year award.

His, Primus and coach Guy Whittingham's presence was also a timely reminder footballers' jobs should not stop the minute they take their boots off.

Primus is the epitomy of this.

Upon receiving his Lifetime Achievement Award he said: 'I am in a blessed place. If I can change people's lives for the better by just turning up, meeting people and signing autographs, then I want to be a part of that.'

It's a nod to his Christian faith, but also reveals an awareness of the city's people many at his club could learn from.

The ordinary folk of Paulsgrove, North End, Fareham etc have embraced Primus because Primus has embraced them.

At the awards he admitted he never thought he'd venture outside the M25 such was his London roots. Now he calls Portsmouth his home.

His reception last night, just as when he lifted the FA Cup, once again revealed the love and warmth afforded to a true hero of the city.

His playing style has helped. A journeyman pro, he has been inspired by rejection to raise his game to such a level he regularly outperformed centre-back partner Sol Campbell.

The fans recognise the guts and desire that took.

When Mr Pompey (as James affectionately called him) does decide to hang up his boots - and it can't be far off - Pompey must keep him involved.

Community work, coaching, whatever suits him best.

To ignore Linvoy would be to ignore one of the best.

And that would be unforgivable.