The Foundation is pleased to announce that their Chief Exec, Otis Roberts, has been chosen as the first Barclays Community Sports Award winner of the 2011/12 season.

Otis will receive £1,000 to spend towards the Foundation’s programmes and will be eligible for the end of season award for £5,000. The end of season award will be decided between each previous monthly winner and will be awarded at the League Managers Awards by Gareth Southgate.

Otis was nominated for the award as “the unsung, driving force behind the Foundation.” Since the Foundation’s launch in 2007 Otis has dedicated much of his time, energy and enthusiasm to ensure that the young people, who attend the Foundation’s various programmes, continue to benefit. Having been raised in the Brent areahe understands the challenges and frustrations that the young people face - andunderstands the need to offer an opportunity for an exit route to steer them away from unsocial behaviour and crime, and drive them to a more fulfilling and rewarding future.

Otis Roberts said: "I'm so pleased to be awarded the Barclays Community Sports Award by Barclays Spaces for Sports, the Football Foundation and Premier League Creating Chances. The work that we do in the community for our young members is vital and it's fantastic to have our work recognised in this way. I’d like to thank our partners and all the people who have got involved over the years for their continued support”

The Barclays Community Sports Award aims to recognise the outstanding achievements of individuals that use sport to benefit communities across the UK. The accolade is awarded each month during the Barclays Premier League Football season alongside those for Barclays Player and Manager of the month, to highlight the great efforts being made by many in Community Sport.

Each monthly winner receives £1,000 for their group or organisation, a limited edition trophy and is entered into the end of season award to win a further £5,000, all donated by Barclays Spaces for Sports. The end of season award winner also receives a VIP trip to London to receive their award from Gareth Southgate.

Gareth said, “I’m delighted to be back on the judging panel for the Barclays Community Sports Award, and to announce Otis Roberts as the first winner of this season. What Otis has created in his community is a safe-haven for young people who are at risk of suffering from social exclusion or crime. His achievements are an inspiration to us all.”

Former England footballer Gareth Southgate heads up the judging panel which sees a new panel member added for the 2011/12 season – Ashling O’Connor (The Times, Olympics Correspondent).

The Award is being delivered in partnership between Barclays Spaces for Sports, the Premier League’s Creating Chances Programme and the Football Foundation.

Click here to read the official press release that has been sent out to the national media: